The true cost of running Reserve & U18 squads

Having now passed my first end of season I was offered the "option" of having Reserve / U18 squads. I like to give the stiffs & kids a run out so have said yes to both leagues - but I was thinking, why not say "yes"? Unless there is a hidden cost (which should be shown as a per week sum when the question is asked) then having those leagues running can only be a plus?

Even without the leagues I would arrange weekly friendlies as I value the match fitness thing that highly. Any thoughts / insights in to this, guys (maybe SI could comment?)

Having now passed my first end of season I was offered the "option" of having Reserve / U18 squads. I like to give the stiffs & kids a run out so have said yes to both leagues - but I was thinking, why not say "yes"? Unless there is a hidden cost (which should be shown as a per week sum when the question is asked) then having those leagues running can only be a plus?

Even without the leagues I would arrange weekly friendlies as I value the match fitness thing that highly. Any thoughts / insights in to this, guys (maybe SI could comment?)

I can only give an opinion, as I don't know figures etc, but if there are any match fees I'm sure they'd be equalised out with gate reciepts. I have definatly never struggled financial as a result of having and managing youth and reserve teams, indeed my U18's have produced a number of memorable results in the U18 cup.

Cheers

Onkster

I have never seen a cost in the game to do with running the reserves/U18's although IRL several english teams disbanded these teams in order to save money

My only costs are the yearly crop of useless regens that my youth system produces. 100 per week for a player with no potential. And I can't get rid of him without paying a huge fee? Super.

I wish you could shut down your youth system until you are able to upgrade it to a point where it is worthwhile. As it is, for many lower league managers it is simply money down the drain.