I'm in a similar boat - my 6th grade son has been on the same football team for 2 years and NEVER misses practice. He got 9 plays including 5 kick offs and 4 defensive plays in a blow out win on Saturday (11 is the minimum required in the league). Last year he had 1 game where he only got 4 plays on a team that only has 14 players. Not the most aggressive/talented kid but is a great kid, loves to play and tries hard. He is very upset at his playing time to the point of tears on the ride home. I try not to complain but ... I have no idea how to handle it without causing issues (look at the responses here already - not always the "bad parents" fault). I am a strong believer that at this age, it is about getting the kids the experience, a love for the game, etc but frustrating.