Have you considered the fact that it costs alot of money to fly over to compete? Sure, its not good that we are running out of state level bowlers, but with the rising cost of fuel add to the fact that the airlines put up their prices, it just gets way too expensive. Most of these guys are independants now, and don't sponge off the parents.
And now that Fairlanes is closing its doors, lack of high level tournaments is contributing to the lack of interest.
Congrats to those that have nominated for youth, and best of luck to you all.
Adrian