In my experience with travel sports, there are basically 3 types of teams. This may or may not go across to soccer, hockey, basketball, etc. 1. Dad coached but aren't experienced at coaching or don't know the sport at a high level. You don't learn much but it doesn't cost a fortune. 2. Organization run & coached with knowledge and experience in the sport, but primary motive of the organization is to make money. Most costly. Monthly dues. Paid coaches. 3. Dad who has coached and played at a high level in the sport and you are just damn lucky you had kids at the same time as they did. No cost, all upside. If you can find #3, I think travel can work. Unfortunately, that one is the most rare.