While a number of Massachusetts high school teams have advanced to their sectional tournament semifinals and finals this week, the late start and late finish to the season has led to some players missing out on early showcases and club team events.
The decision by the MIAA to start spring sports late (not until late April) and finish even later (some finals will be played in early July) was a result of the perceived need to make space for a February-through-April football season, first and foremost.
But the consequences of that shift are being felt now, as are a number of other factors that have led to a change in how college recruiting has changed.
While most club directors were unmoved -- or at least claimed to be unmoved -- by the delay, there are others who have seen negative effects almost immediately. The reach of the player drop-off has even reached northern states (like New Hampshire) that field prominent club teams.
