That picture is worth 1000 words. Here are a few of them.

1) You guys need a bigger trash can at your field or more frequent pick-ups.

2) Learning to fly on a built up balsa plane is probably a mistake

3) If you had a trainer/first plane that could stand up to some crashes, you wouldn't be putting them in the trash like that.

Net Net:

Until you are confident that you can safely take off, control the plane in the air and land, you are best served flying a plane that is light, slow and can survive some bad landings.

If anyone needs some suggestions I know several electrics that fit the bill.