Jeff:

I was trying to kid around with you a little. I do agree it is not fair to have a 9 year old against a 5 year old. Personally though I would not be thinking of putting a 5 year old in the State tournament environment. My personal belief is that the majority of 5 year olds and probably even their parents are not ready for it. I know there are exceptions both for kids and their parents. I am sure that your family could definitely do it. I don't think I personally would have been ready when my son was five and he didn't even start until he was 7 which I think was soon enough for him.