I don't like the new AOY only format for the Elites to qualify for the classic. Would be a shame if KVD doesn't make the classic after winning 2 tournaments this year. I know they are trying to keep the number of classic participates down, but they have added too many "Other" methods to get into the classic -(College, Opens, Nation, etc.) that now they are affecting the number of Pros who get in to fish. For many of these Pros making the classic is paramount to getting sponsors to keep supporting them. I think it is great there is Collegiate and High School bass tournaments, but this is For Fun for them and not trying to make a living.
Before you all blow up on me I have a son who fished on a College team and would have loved to see him in the Classic, but the truth is winning in a team environment in college is not the same as fishing solo. Yes there are exceptions (the Lee Brothers). Let the best college anglers fish for their own Classic and if they want to fish with the elites let them qualify thru the opens. Exactly like golf does it. Anyone can qualify to play in the US Open. You just have to win your way at the highest level for the opportunity.
Why wouldn't you want a college angler to fish in the classic? So you can see a "pro" fish? I would put almost any of the former college fishing national champions up against any of the pros. The Lee brothers aren't an exception. There are many phenomenal anglers fishing at the college level. I fished against many of them. Look at all of the young up and coming stars that are fishing in the elite series. Paulinik, Wheeler, Avena, Lucas, the Lee brothers, and on and on. They are the next generation of anglers, and there are many hungry ones in college looking for that chance to step into the spotlight.