The rationale for the rule as given when it was established was to improve competition by preventing strong HS teams, i.e., STA boys or girls soccer teams, from playing off season sports as a club team. Other examples: Miege volleyball, Colgan and Ward baseball if there where fall club baseball, etc. The rule accomplished what was intended in the three biggest population area. But, I also think it hamstrings the ability of smaller towns to put one-town teams in off season competition.