Who knows...........at the U15/16 level we shouldn't be as worried about results, rankings, etc. anyway. We should be worrying about how the players are being trained, instructed, etc. Some of the teams that have done well at the U15/16 level, don't do as well at the U17/18 level. And vice versa. FC Dallas, for instance, doesn't seem to put as much emphasis on sheer results at the U15/16 level. They're usually "middle of the pack" in the Texas Division. Pareja was always fond of saying that their team wasn't going to sacrifice the way they play in order to get good results at that level. Yet they're annually one of the best U17/18 teams in terms of results, as presumably the lessons taught at the U15/16 level bear fruit.
I tend to agree with you on focusing on training at both levels. However the carrot of going to the playoffs is a nice experience for the players as well. I like the fact that so many of the teams can qualify for the playoffs which should allow a coach the ability to focus on training and develpement while still having of decent shot at some playoff atmosphere games at the end.
Sorry guys, this thread has nearly doubled it's allowed lifespan. Continued here... https://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?p=25381370#post25381370