Kitten.... The exception to the rule is exactly that an exception. You cannot possibly believe that because of one rare find that all are the same. Adu's brother will be playing at George Mason University next fall, guess what...he cannot drive himself he is only 15.
The problem is to make sure the individual in question is MATURE physically and/or psychologically to handle the event. It is up to the coaches to make sure that is the case, a 5'4" 120 lbs 18 year old knows exactly what he is in for. Your argument, to me, does not appear to hold water in other sports. Simply they would not be selected.
Hurst....Girls...absolutely different story, speed/size is less of a concern. But then we continue to make exceptions
Regarding playing up...I am a strong believer that there are many advantages to playing up. I also believe that it is MY DUTY to determine IF playing up is the right thing for the player. This should not be taken lightly. If the player is selected to play up, then they MUST PLAY and not sit on the bench. I actually challenge my girls by playing up often, only because I know we are competitive, otherwise I would not.
And Lurker/Greengrass....sorry ...I was tyring to agree with a comment and it exploded on me.
