Very dire straits indeed, Lou.
But how much responsibility do the players have in this equation?
To tell you the truth, Johan sounded ultimately dejected when describing he, himself, a coach, flying to Doha to watch the world championships. And not even his best player Shane, making the trip with him.
I think Skylar missing that pre Mosconi tourney vs team Russia was a HUGE part in his comments in the interview.
If the players wanted to train, and commit, he seems to think the money is there, but are they willing to do that?
Is Justin B willing to move to Europe if given a stipend and room and board to play full on Euro tour pool while training drills 6 hours a day?
I know this is off topic but I stumbled across the table tennis world championships for 2017. The Romanian girl who was lowest ranked in the field, won the entire thing, but watch her matches and it's all about the focus and commitment. In the stands were her coach, her sports psychologist, and her family.
Here's a link:
https://youtu.be/xK92_3HLjyg
I understand there is probably funding for her from the Romanian government IOC, but first the player had to show up and make the commitment. What resulted was a complete dark horse defeating the best in the world.
I think there's a way but it starts with the players, there are people who want to support them, but are they willing to commit every part of their being?