From the PGF site re: Returning Berths
[i]4) Returning berths are only valid for that age division. The Designated Head Coach may not bring the berth to an upper division and may not assign the berth to another coach within their organization.[/i]
This rule seems to reward organizations who keep coaches in the same age division while passing players up to other coaches within the org, while punishing organizations (and, significantly, non-affiliated teams) that keep coaches and players together as they move up in age. And notably does not affect the 18HS division.
Just for example, in 14u it appears that McNee can keep his berth if he coaches 14u next year, but Knighten would lose his if he goes to 16u with the team he's had for years.
Curious as to the thinking behind this rule.