One other aspect is parnters, if you can get a middle schoold program with good experienced kids then you are ok. From what I have seen you will be practicing those 6-7 weeks with beginners and novice type kids.

I have elected not to have my 7th grader do middle school, if they would allow us to hit the 3-4 tough tournament a year than I would be more inclined to do it.

There are dual tournaments out there for them to participate in to get the team aspect.