The almost-$10k excess (closer to 8) was for a Duchess, not a little trainer. They have a whole range of excesses per aircraft, ranging from just over $2000 for a little two-seater, up to the scary figure for a twin.
Ive flown out of many flying schools and aero clubs across the country, and this is the first time Ive heard of it being the student's responsibility (other than in the case of gross negligence).
As a CPL holder, I expect that I won't be accidentally landing on the nosewheel, or taxiing into another plane, but then again, isnt that the point of insurance?