Is this what happens when the economy is in the toilet?

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

Every time gas prices jump, I see teams not return and tourneys with lower numbers. Softball is not inexpensive when it costs $450-500 per team ($40-50 per player), plus gas to get to and from the fields, plus equipment such as new balls and bats (and we all know how much those bats can run), shoes, maybe a new glove...

Then there are the secondary costs, such as going out with the team to the bars afterwards, finding a babysitter, etc.

This sport isn't cheap, and when families are worried about finances, these entertainment expenses (and that's exactly what they are) are first to go.

#1. Those rates are too high
#2. Actually, I was referring to league play where travel is limited and the spouse does the babysitting.