In your option you don't knock down the cost, you shift the cost.
For your child to go to these events, either you are going to pay for the group transportation, lodging and meals, or you are going to pay for yours and your childs transportation, lodging and meals.
Of course, for many it's easier to pay the cost if they see the benefit. Meaning, some people would have less of an issue paying for the hotel room for them and their child, and even the meals, since they are then going to be able to watch them play. But I really think, if you actually compare the costs, you will find that to be a more expensive option than the group rates.
One of the things ODP requires is for the players to stay together. So if the parents want to go, then it's an additional cost.
Every year when the topic of cost comes up I've wondered how much is really for increasing the opportunity for the underserved market, and how much is for selfish gain. If the cost of the program was artifically lowered, then more "families" would be able to enjoy the weekend. If it's free for participation, then any cost would be for others to go, not the players.
There probably is a way to offset some of the costs, but that would require money from elsewhere within the SCYSA budget. Currently, ODP is required to be self sufficient.
