RE: HOW TO GET PEOPLE INTO COMBAT?
I'm 16, and know many people my age who spend hours on R/C cars, electric aircraft, etc. The basis is there, as is the interest. I don't think that this is the problem. I think most people have never joined a club, and thus have never been exposed to other aspects of the hobby.
Get them into the club with a basic trainer, let them learn the basics of engine operation and care, as well as building skills needed to build future aircraft, such as a combat plane.
There is not enough overall interest in combat for growth. I know of only one person in my club who fly's combat, and, because of this, newcomers are largely unaware.