I have been watching the back and forth regarding this topic for awhile now. In trying to understand the implications on both sides (there seem to be two distinct factions).
In looking at the number of shows, it seems Academy is participating in roughly half the number of most of the other top 12.
I've read all the reasons pro and con, financial mostly on the pro side, fundamental fairness on the con. My questions along with my initial thoughts are these.
On the issue of finance:
If all the Div 1 corps decided to adopt this model for next year, and going forward, what impact would this have on the fan base/revenue base to the activity at large? What would the activity look like? Would this be the growth model? The survival model? On the face of it, it would seem the activity would not/could not sustain the national reach it currently has. Perhaps it cannot sustain itself long term with the current model either. If at the end of the day it is about finance, why not just have each corps compete in 12 shows of their choosing and then show up at Indy in August for Finals?
On the issue of fairness:
Is there another activity, sports or performance, amateur or professional, where a particpant can opt in and opt out of the activity as finance or circumstance dictate? Presumably DCI allows this, and on that basis it is okay. I'm at a loss to understand that perspective, but I'm trying. You are either in the arena, and competing in the same crucible that is tour or you are not.
These are my questions/thoughts on the topic. I'm certain many of you with far more experience could help to enlighten me.