Why would the best sticks not show?
I know several sticks that skill levels exceeded the challenge of the game and thus, no longer participates often or at all. That is sad to me. Especially those I looked up to for knowledge and as an understudy.
So if its for free, well, I just dont think they be interested as much and might not entice them to come back. In terms of pure competition, they been there-done that.