Ken-

I was operating under the assumption that he is already flying a trainer and will be flying it for quite a while before moving on to a second plane. I would agree with what you say about Cubs, although the ground handling is certainly manageable, as is the adverse yaw with aileron differential and coordinated rudder. Once you get a Cub in the air, it's pretty easy to fly. I certainly think a Cub is a better second plane than a Decathlon, particularly for someone who is looking for "high wing" and "scale."

-Scott