a suggestion: if, as a parent of a new or potential drum corps member, you are concerned about your child, then volunteer. my youngest son, at 14, was the youngest member of of his corps during their first season. i checked in, went to shows that were close and hopped on for the last couple of weeks of tour. his second year i was even more involved (because i enjoyed it and wanted to help). i know not everyone can spend many days or weeks on tour but contact the corps and find out what you CAN do. it helps the corps and it helps you.