I would imagine that entering a tour is now a more risky venture for student teams. With the formation of UK Ultimate, I believe (I'm sure Ben will correct if I am wrong!) that it is now not possible to have more than one pickup per tour (as a guest). When Phat 'Eds played all the tours and Nationals a few years ago, we picked up a few players when we were short. From my experience students also have a very fickle nature, they tend to pull out the at the last minute which can leave teams stranded without pick ups.
Due to these reasons and the higher tournament fees, it may be discouraging student teams from entering tour events. It also reduces the opportunities for people wanting to pick-up for teams but not commit for the whole tour. This could be solved by more fun tournaments, but the calendar is pretty full already and so it is risky also planning these tournaments due uncertainty with interest in the event. I should add that: I think that UK Ultimate is a great idea and good for the future, I am just trying to answer some of the questions being asked. Cheers, Dave (Phat 'Eds)
