Let me get this straight. You've been playing aces high (for free) using the H2H/LAN options, and now you're complaining because you can no longer continue to do so with the new version? That doesn't sound right.
HiTech Creations does not offer a 'box version' of this game. They offer the game for free, but to really 'play' it, you have to subscribe to their online service, which is $15american per month.
One of the big reasons they discontinued their head-to-head and LAN play options is because too many people were abusing the free download of the game, and as a business HiTech must make money in order to continue to operate and develop.
While I am sure there are older versions out there that you can download and play, the legality of doing so may be in question. Your best option is to pay up the $15/month per user and play with your sons in the online arenas.
With that being said, I have heard through the grapevine that HiTech is developing H2H play mode again, but a subscription will still be required.
Yes, definitely feel free to Email HiTech regarding your options, but if you insist on continuing to play for free, then I'm afraid that your options may be severely limited.