Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Caveats and qualifiers: I've never been to any other competitions than the Colorado Regional. I have no idea what the atmosphere and level of play are at the the finals. I have no expertise in programming, and a lot of what happens on the field is a black box to me. I don't know anything about any teams winning records.

That being said, here are the teams that inspire me to be a coach:

Montbello High School in Denver. They build their robot out of scrap plywood with a biology teacher as their coach. Every time I looked at their pit last year, it was 100% kids working and smiling; no engineers, no fancy stuff. They were awesome.

Lincoln High in Denver. They had, I think, three kids on their team last year. They decided just build a little thing that would run; nothing fancy at all. It ran so well, they were in the top ten, if I remember correctly. They too were awesome.

Winnovation. Just 'cause they were fast and cool.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I'm inspired by team 1511 Rolling Thunder and team 340 G.R.R. who have grown to become leaders in the Rochester FIRST community.
I am inspired by our sister teams 1126,. 1450, 2340, 2228 ( I will always consider them a Xerox team and a sister of our. A class origination through and through) 1425, 1138 and our newest sister team 3003. Welcome to the party guys. Buckle up. It's about to get wild.
I am inspired by our fellow Hall of Fame teams from us (yes you can be inspired by your own team. It's tough lasting 17 years doing this and improving on what got you here)to our newest member 842. These teams are the pinnacle of FIRST and should be looked to for the answer of how to do it right. But I am particularly inspired by team 365 MOE who is the most unique team in FIRST and a model FIRST program.
And team 1902 Exploding Bacon who are the most gracious and nicest people you will ever know. If you are in a competition with them make a point to go up to them and say hi. You'll be glad you did.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I'm inspired by so many teams in so many ways. It astounds me how many teams can accomplish the seemingly impossible, they reach out to people in their communities and all around the world, touching the hearts of so many. They produce incredible robots, sturdy and reliable through tough matches, quick and agile on the field, robots that excel under all circumstances. They have strategies that most of us could have never come up with, but are executed perfectly. Their mentors are inspiring. The team members work together like clockwork. They have amazing scouting databases. Their spirit and enthusiasm is never-ending. They're friendly and open to helping everyone.

Each team has their own strong point, but some teams stand out from the rest as leaders in specific categories, or just teams with all-around excellence. They are the teams we look up to, the standard we hold ourselves to. I think that everyone should recognize the teams that inspire them, no matter who they are.

Of course, we're all biased to local teams, since they're the ones who help us get off our feet. Established Connecticut teams like 175, 176, 177, 178, 181, 195, 227, 228, and 230 definitely inspire rookie teams as they come about, and help them to find their footing. I know they did that for my team in it's early years, before I was around, but continued to support us and help us find resources. It's great to have a helpful older sibling around when you're first getting started, and I hope teams that are entering their later years remember to help out newer teams around them.

My rookie year in FIRST, I also learned a very important lesson from Team 177. Or maybe a few lessons. It was my first official FIRST competition, the UTC New England Regional 2006, and our team was ranked 40 out of 40 with one match to go. We had had some pretty bad luck with alliance partners not showing up, and while our robot was definitely not number one, it was decent, and had some hidden talent. I naively assumed that our rank meant everything, and this was the end for us. However, during alliance selections, we were chosen by 177 to round out their alliance. That's right, it's not just team qualifying rank that counts, it's important to pick teams that fit your strategy, and can be an effective member of your alliance. That was news to me. And then... since I had coached a few matches, I got to sit in on the strategy session for the eliminations. Team 177's scouting captain came in with a wealth of documented data... he was like a god to me. I had no idea how important or how extensive scouting data could be. It was a wake-up call for the whole team. I learned a lot about strategy from that experience, and it's thanks to the wisdom of an older team. I'm sure everyone has stories like this.

As Koko Ed pointed out, the Hall of Fame teams are definitely people who should be inspirations to us all. It's worth looking into them and talking to HOF teams to get an idea of the kinds of things that they have done, and still do.

There are many other salient examples. 1902 is definitely an inspiration to me. They came into the game knowing what FIRST was really about, from the very beginning. I'm pretty sure this is what helped them get to Einstein their very first year.

Team 365 has a very unique way of running their team, and they have a multitude of resources for new students and new teams. They have seemingly endless spirit, and an overall good attitude towards everything. They're also sometimes surprising with their strategies, as they showed me last year on Archimedes.

I know a lot of east coast teams, being from Connecticut, but it doesn't mean the teams on the west coast escape us. I heard about team 254 at the very beginning of my FRC experience, and we've definitely learned a thing or two about designing effective robots from looking at their extensive history of victory. Actually, I could say the same for Team 233 down in Florida.

I could go on and on... my experience in FIRST has been shaped by a lot of teams, some older than others. I just think it's great to have these teams here to guide us and show us the extent of our potential.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

being involved for 9 years, there is a ton of teams that i have come in contact with along the way, but for CD sake im just going to pick one.
i personally love the Robo Wizards, 522 McKee Career & Technical High School. Mentors are awesome, they always have kids on the team that are amazing. every regional i go out of my way to go to their pit and spend time with them. they are just one of those teams i grew up with. i remember the new york regional at Columbia university and just being inspired by them. thanks : )
-Mentor Mike, Team 354 Pirates

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I'm not sure if 47 gets enough recognition just for this gigantinormous forum, but it sure is the best place to spend most of my high school career aimlessly wandering ;) Everything here is inspiring, and it's only because they created it!

Then there's Carl Hayden, 842. Wow. They basically teamed up with our principal and created this shindig at our high school, so from the beginning I've been in awe of what they CAN and DO accomplish. From what I know they live in a pretty tough spot in Phoenix, but they inspire sooo many teams and individuals despite their hardships. (PS : we hope to work a little closer with you guys this season, and I think we're planning on signing up for NURC, just a little later as usual!)

Oh, and the other awesome team at Arizona that just continues to outdo us :rolleyes: 39 just manages to build the coolest robots, I can't wait to see what they cook up this year, and I definitely can't wait to be paired up with them sometime in the distant future :cool:

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Trust me, considering 47 is a Hall of Fame team everybody is aware of how much Cheifdelphi means to FIRST.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

2046 and 1983 have always had a good relationship. We teamed up last year and took home the gold in Seattle. We've always had a friendly rivalry, and most of the time we do driver practice we end up over with them. Here's to you guys!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

314 and 397 have inspired me in the last couple years that I have gotten to know them. They do so much with so little and their entire organizations are so dedicated.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Probably most of all 103.

Talk to their students and mentors and they know their stuff. It dispels all that "mentor built" rumors and crap that people go around spreading. They are genuinely good people.

If you can add your own team to the list then I guess team 11 too. Your own team can inspire you to work harder and do better in whatever you are trying to accomplish.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Team 103 is the team that inspired me my first year in FIRST, watching them win awards in Philly and then the chairmans award, that is where I learned what it took to be a chairmans team and I used the examples I saw in that team on MOE to the best of my abilities, how to have such a clean and amazing presentation on everything they do.. it just blew me away and still dose to this day.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

You know, I have to add 103 to this list also. Their expertise and GP over the years, along with plain raw performance, is inspiring.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

In particular order:

71, 111, 1114, 47, 4/22, 65, 254, 60, 25, 330, 233

:D

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Teams 100, 692, 852 and 973! These are the ones I know personally and have not been mentioned here.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

254 the Cheesy Poofs. Go on google video and watch the Science Channel special on FIRST from 2003 and you'll see their story.

Not only are they one of the most decorated teams in FIRST in terms of robot performance, they are also a Championship Chairmans winner. 'Nuff said.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

That is pure FIRST poetry right there!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

233,179,180,79,191,71,1523,1251...too many teams to count have all inspired me. In too many ways to count. FIRST has had a huge impact on who I have become and how I look at the world and the teams are what have made FIRST so amazing. The work ethic, commitment, enthusiasm, and sheer will power of every team I have had the pleasure of meeting has been astounding.

Also one team that has inspired me recently is actually a rookie this year. Team 2757 B.A.D has inspired me even before their first build season, because of the organization, dedication, and enthusiasm that they have already shown for FIRST. I look forward to seeing them in action this season.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I am inspired in some way by every team in FIRST. Anyone that knows me knows my favorite part of competition is going around and looking at everyone else's robot if I have the time. Every team can learn something from another one no matter how long they have been doing this. Also, all of the teams inspire me because they all have their own stories and trials they had to overcome which in most cases are great stories.

Just my thoughts,

-Drew

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Having only been involved for a short time I found the entire organization inspiring. Starting from the top and all the way to the newest teams. The most profound statement came from an CMU professor last year at the Pgh. regional.

I was chatting with the professor and taking notice of the who's who of judges. The teams were buzzing around and running there robot like NASCAR race teams. All the time having fun.

I made the statement "...I wish they really understood the brain power watching them". The professor said "...weather they (the teams) do or not. The judges DO understand what stands before them! That's why there here".

It just kind of put things in prospective. The teams are competing with the same skills used in the industrial work place of today. I would even venture to say there more advanced than some twice their age, on many levels.

This world is going to be far better from the inspiration of FIRST and everyone involved.

Dave Dujmic

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

although i've only been involved in FIRST for like 1 year (unless you count this year already)... but in that one year, i've experienced a lot, and there are definitely teams that inspire me... First and foremost is my own team, 1089... Without them, i would have never known the joys of building a robot in only 6 weeks (:p ). Seccond, team 25 is a nother one... not only are they mentors for my team, but to many others... they really push us (1089) to do our best... sometimes is comes down to a student vs teacher type deal, but win or lose, we're always gonna be linked no matter what... 103 is another, they are always gracious, they are a well repsected team... every time i go to a competition, someone always says... "Oh i hope we are on an alliance with 25 or 103" and when we are, we always do our best, as if to impress their team... 11 is a team i enjoy competing with and against... last year we picked them in the nj regional, and we almost managed to take down the number 1 alliance.. which had 25 and 103... finally, 2590 is a team i admire... they only started last year (overdrive)... we halped them get started, along with 25, and they responded by leading their alliance to the finals of the nj regional... they are very humble, and i'm really glad, we helped them, because they are going to be really good really soon... I do have a limited view, as i only have been around for 1 year, but this year i hope to get more experience!!!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

oh, and also, is there really a hall of fame? and if so, which teams are in it?

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

hehehe, as much as I love more compliments about MORT, we were not on an alliance last year dude;) . In fact, 2590 was the team that chose MORT and we went into the finals against 103 and 25.

You may have confused your team with our third pick which was team 1980.

I really love 1089 and I hope to work with them this year. We were allianced with you guys in 05 at Trenton though. 1089 is def. one of the strongest teams in NJ and on the east coast....figures, when you have team 25 as mentors.

Also the teams in the Hall of Fame are the championship chairmans award winners.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

haha...woops... i think i confused you guys with 449... it was so long ago, it slipped my mind... sorry 449, didn't mean to overlook you... but anyway, 11 is a great team and i hope we get to work together this year!!

(Oh and akash, check your pm's becaus i responded to the pm you sent me like a couple of months ago...)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I think its safe to say that when your at a point at implementing design ideas from other teams, they are the ones we are inspired by. 254, 60, 330, 368 just to name a few from the West Coast.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Yes there is really a Hall of Fame. You get into the Hall of Fame by winning the Chairman's award. The teams that have won the Chairman's award are listed below and the year they won it. The teams in red are still active according to the FIRST website.

1992: Team 191 "The X-Cats"
1993: Team 7 "The Labsters", there is currently a team 7, I think it's a recycled number because their history starts in the year 1997.
1994: Team 191 "The X-Cats"
1995: Team 151 "Purple Twister"
1996: Team 144 "Operation Orange"
1997: Team 47 "Chief Delphi"
1998: Team 23 "PNTA"
1999: Team 120 "Scarabian Knights"
2000: Team 16 "Baxter Bomb Squad"
2001: Team 22 "Double Deuce"
2002: Team 175 "Buzz"
2003: Team 103 "Cybersonics"
2004: Team 254 "Cheesy Poofs"
2005: Team 67 "The HOT Team"
2006: Team 111 "Wildstang"
2007: Team 365 "Miracle Workerz"
2008: Team 842 "Falcon Robotics"

Hope that this helps answer your question.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

thanks!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Having known 842 for three years now, there is no way to not be inspired by them. They are simply the most amazing team that I have ever had the opportunity to meet. Their Chairman's award at championships last year was very very well deserved... the things they have accomplished blow the mind.

As far as robot-building is concerned, 1501 and 190 stand out to me as the most inspirational (by far). I have no idea how they build such awesomely creative machines every year. Definitely the two teams that I can't wait to see reveal their robots.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

There are of course a ton of the Chairmans and "great" teams that inspire us all, but I have to say I love how this post started... with the "little teams that could".

So I figured I will add a few of mine. I dont think many know team 1551 from Naples NY (or at least anyone outside Rochester might not), but they have a coach that is just awe inspiring to me. He is a physics teacher, with no engineering companies nearby, he got his students so excited that they spent 3 years raising money to make it to their first FIRST competition!! Every year since they struggle to scrape together funds, but every year they learn a little more, build a better robot, and keep chugging along. Their kids are great, they have some happy parents, and their coach continues to amaze me (heck he even got married the day before kickoff and pushed his honeymoon off until AFTER robot season!!!).

Another is one I will always remember... in 2000 I was lead inspector at Championships, and there was this little team of a father, his son and his son's friend, and they built this little scissor lift on wheels with a cardboard box on top. Their robot wasnt even working when they got there, but I grabbed a bunch of the teams I knew to help them and they got up and running. They had such an amazing attitude and were so excited and having so much fun that I get a smile on my face every time I remember them.

And I have two more to name that will likely come as no shock... my two old teams, 176 and 229... while both were just "being born" while I was on them, both have come an amazingly long way and do so many great things now. 176 hosts the UTC Scrimmage every year, they are at countless fairs, parades and events when I am home over the summer, and they just always seem to have a great group of hard working kids! 229 was my first "baby", but all the college kids that poured in and brought tons of experience years after me really made it great. Its so inspiring to see the amount of work they put into their summer programs, the great FTC and FLL programs they have put together for some very underfunded underprivileged schools in their area, and all the grants and funding they are able to acquire for their many programs. Its amazing and inspiring to go back and see the transformation.

Good luck tomorrow everyone!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Teams that inspire me, Lie the above posts I could name many. Of all the teams Ive worked with I think the cooperation of 229 and 217, to form Division By Chicken, has left some of the greatest impact on me. It showed how to teams can work together with very different outcomes and be very succesful.

Also going beyond teams that inspire I have to say its my mentors that have inspired my pursuit as an engineering student the most, to list a few; John V Neun, Chris Carnevale, Adrienne Emerson, Ed, Ellery, and Kim O'Toole Eckhardt. Although as time moves on sometimes we spread apart, dont hear from each other very often, it was the inspiration that they planted in me as a little highschool freshman that I look back on with the fondest of all memories.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Couldn't agree more.

I've gotten most of my design ideas from 368, 488, and 852. We got the chance to play with all three of them last school year. Awesome!

I'm also a 121 fan. They're simple. They gettim done fast. And they win.
Seeing all the bots last year, I'm a little surprised no one else has "admitted" to being inspired by 121 ;)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I'm inspired by the teams that always have the worry about finances. Each and every year, needing to do fundraising just in order to enter FIRST. And yet, these are the teams that come with a simple, reliable robot. No frills, yet usually wonderful at the thing it does. This makes me even more thankful for 2225's sponsor (Go CAT!!!)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Ok... I'm inspired by a lot of teams however i'll keep it short.
My own team, team 316, because with a smaller team of only 8-15 students, struggling with funds, every year we always seem to have a decent rank and with out them i don't know what would have happpened.
Another team that I always found inspiring was Dawgma. As a rookie team, they had a great robot and won highest seeded rookie team along with another award that slips my mind in these weee hours of the morning, however they always seem to be on beat and have a beastin' bot. They are also great alliance partners and competition. :D Congratulations to ALL teams on and off this page who inspire, which is part of the grounds that FIRST stands on. For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Like Shelby, I'm inspired by our team because we are small and low on funds, yet we always make our dreams come true.
Another team I'm inspired by actually is the FLL team that team 316 mentors, FLL team 6960. They started working on their bot in about December of 2008, and they've already jumped into it and are psyched for the next challenge. I feel honored to help out the middle school students on that team. :)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

1153 - robot always looks & is amazing, everybody on your team rocks, and we always know who's going to be next to us in the pit :D. I think your alliance selection person is one of the people I've talked to most at any regional.

1991 - my first year at CT, I think it was your rookie year, and we did the sign clapping, and it was amazing. Your presence is inspiring.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Haha, I'd have to say that you're the person I've talked the most to at any regional as well. An absolute shame we've never gotten to ally with one another.

I'd say your team has been quite inspiring to us as well. We thought the double helix design you have this year was a great idea into getting extra storage space and shooting speed.

190 is another team we always look forward to seeing. They always have a unique robot with a cool design. It's always inspiring to see them and go that's a fantastic idea; how did they come up with it and implement it so well?

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Personally, I have to say a few teams here. In my first FIRST competition at VCU I have to thank the Stags(:D ) and the Nasa Knights(:cool: ) for good and friendly company in the Pits, and also Team 88(:o ) for leading us on our way through the finals!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Just some of my personal favorites:

1114
254
365
1923 (for a great year and starting from nothing)
25
1153
11
2753
and a ton more that I can't name off the top of my head. I was only a scout last year.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Dude, it really means a lot to be on a list alongside MOE, Poofs, RR(Raider Robotix), and Simbotics. Especially coming from the driver of a team we on MORT deeply respect. Thank you.:)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

No problem. You guys have a solid robot every year, you always try to help, your enthusiastic, you don't get mad when you don't win, and probably most of all, you are really humble.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

There are so many but this year 103 has constantly impressed me with their standards and preparation. I have all the respect in the world for them. It would be unfair for me to say that each and every team in FIRST has not inspired me or taught me something in one way or another. Sometimes you learn from the mistakes of others and other times from their success.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

FIRST Tech Challenge teams that have inspired me...

Team 27: Polar Bear Robotics - A team of only two girls and a dedicated coach, both of which with years of FLL experience, coming into FTC they did extremely well winning the ontario regional. Their robot was extraordinary.

Team Pi Robotics - Although they have unfortunately done poorly at regional's, their dedication and continuing unfaltering effort in their robot is truly inspiring.

Team 541 - Their mentors and students ran to help me and other teams in the time of need at a regional.

FRC Team St. Martins - The team who introduced me to FIRST!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I am impressed by teams that build consistent robots that can do task X, Y, and Z in a minimal amount of time. However, the teams that I am inspired by are those who may not have the best robot, but the most enthusiasm at an event. Teams that go to competition not to win, but to do the best they can and go home happy. A lot of times you’ll see great teams knocked out of the eliminations, and like an on off switch, there section in the stands goes quiet.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

233 almost always impresses with their bots.
190 has an amazing ability at thinking outside the box when they choose to (ie 2008) and i am very excited to get to work with them next year.
1902 Anyone who has been to a competition with them knows why they deserve a spot on this list.
I was very impressed by 1649 this year, they really made an amazing robot.
1625. They were a pleasure to work with at nationals last year, and they had an amazing bot then, and this years is perhaps even better.
and Im sure im forgetting some people

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Teams that inspired me this competition season also include 1089 and 1403.

Both teams showed up in Trenton with robots to either rebuild, finish, or redesign. Both teams successfully completed their robots with the students working like mad. It was an awesome sight to see how a team can truly come together to achieve something GREATER than a regional win. Its the mark of a real team.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

1771,1717,1726 for me this season and of course my all time favs:

11 and 2753.

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I am very thankful to everyone that has helped us this year and 103 has been a great inspiration to us, so I am very glad we have been an inspiration to others.

Also I like to give extreme thanks to teams 303, 56, 11, 25, 1323, and 1114 for being so generous with information, help and parts. You guys truly inspired our team.

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When we started in 2001 and competed in LA, Team 60 (Kingman) stood out and set the bar pretty high on how to best build a robot and have it look great. Also Team 22 (Chatsworth - now Team 4?) did a lot to help us find our way.

In 2003, we had some issues with our Drill motor transmissions, and EJ from 254 was very helpful and showed us in like 10 minutes how to rebuild those transmissions (clutches) so they worked correctly. And while 254 gets lots of nods on these forums, it is rightly due to some amazing leadership from EJ, Cory, and many others that continues to this day. Yes they got in the Hall of Fame, but I still eagerly await the day their robot wins on Einstein.

Also back in that era, 192 (Gunn High), showed us what spirit was all about. I also need to give some props to 599 (RoboDox) - they too do an incredible amount to help teams at competitions and are just a great group to be around.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

45

...and a bunch of others...

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Thank you to those who mentioned Team 60. I'm just new to FRC and have only been to the Arizona Regional, but here are the teams:

Team 39 (39th Aero Squadron) - Our alliance partner last year for Overdrive and we won AZ regional last year, along with Team 1165 (Team Paradise). Team 39 was happy to help out any teams that asked for help.

Team 69 (Hyper-Drive) - A team we met at AZ regional this year. I know them as the amazing team that works well with any other team. They were great partners during the qualification match, with a great robot.

Team 1726 (N.E.R.D.S.) - Of course, the creators of the amazing robot, Major Tom. Congrats to them, along with teams 39 and 1165, for winning the AZ regional this year. They have created an outstanding robot.

Team 2839 (Team Daedelus) - A rookie team, but I still find them amazing. They had such fatih in our team and I wish them success where ever they go. They never lose sight of the fact that FIRST is about teamwork.

- Joanna

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

My list is so long I can't give everyone the credit they deserve. However, any team that is actively working towards Chairman's is inspiring to me. They have a goal and are working towards that goal no matter how distant it may seem. They realize that FRC is not just about building robots. It is about inspiring youth, and doing whatever it takes to make a great experience for those students that they are working with today and those that may be touched by them in the future. They show me that it is possible to have a First team and that they can get students engaged and thinking and excited about science and technology. The one thing I have learned in the last fourteen years is that a happy student is one who will go places and do things. The size of the team, the greatness of their victories or the design of the robot means little in the scheme of things. Excited, happy, thinking students are the yardstick by which I measure teams.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Prepare to add 2009: Team 45 "TechnoKats" to that list.

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Team 272 Lansdale Catholic, Lansdale PA and their mentor Frank Larkin.
Although they are not as well known on Delphi.
They were our first mentor, before mentoring was so popular. They run a successful, no-nonsense program that produces great machines, and enthusiastic kids on a shoestring budget, year after year.

There are many great teams that we work with and inspire us in the Philly area. (The list would be very large) But 272 was the first team to call us in our rookie year, just to check in and see if we needed help. They have never stopped doing that.

In our rookie year, 10 years ago, they picked us as a back-up alliance partner and it was an honor to play with them again this past weekend in Philly!

Go LC!!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Or maybe add 2009: Team 234 "Cyber Blue" to that list (3 RCA in past 3 years, 5 RCA total, CMP KPC&B Entrepreneurship in '06). I think one of the best story lines of the year is how those two IN FIRST teams have paired on the field for nearly 2 regional wins, and both will be major contenders for the highest award. Of course, I don't pick favs until all the RCA have been awarded, you never know what can happen.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

45 and 234 tell an extraordinary tale of combining strengths and off-setting weaknesses by working together on the field, off the field, and in helping build a strong structure in Indiana that can promote FIRST, aid others, and pull off incredible events. Separately and together, both teams shine and have a way of bringing out the best in others, helping them to shine as well - be it teams, organizations, sponsors, or individuals. They compete like crazy and have a lot of fun doing it along the way.

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I think it speaks volumes about what 45 and 234 have done, and what FIRST as a program has become, that the people who have noted their accomplishments this year are from Delaware and Texas.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I'm inspired by the chillean team (can't remember their number, they compete in LA this year), because I know the difficulties that is compete far away from home...

And some other teams that I could knew a few more in two championships (2007 and 2008) like:

#33 Killer Bees
#341 Miss Daysy
#330 Beach Bots
#16 Bomb Squad
#56 Robbe Extreme
#1902 Exploding Bacon
#45 Technokats

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Each and every team in FIRST has their own tale that inspires us all in many different ways. I think the greatest inspiration to all of us, well at least me, is all of our mentors, on our own teams and on other teams. Without them most of us would be lost. This is a thank you to all the mentors, thank you for continuing to inspire us each and everyday. :)

Cass

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

My list would be very very long.
But on today's list is a brand new entry - the rookie all star team from Chesapeake -2866.
The story just keeps going. Right now, every department in their school is jumping in to come up with the registration fee by tomorrow. You can read more about them in the Chesapeake thread.
They have had a crash course in FIRST and are so willing to learn from everyone. They have a huge fan club. Many thanks to all who have helped them along the way.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

They actually have another RCA (2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009) and 4 Championship awards (2001-Delphi "Driving Tomorrows Technology Award", 2006 - Entrepreneurship Award, 2007 - Quality Award, 2008 - Autodesk Inventor Award) Which is completely stellar!

Congrats Cyber Blue! You deserve it!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I think I'm most inspired by team 111, 67, and 254. Each year, they have great robots over and over again. Plus, they are part of the Hall of Fame; when I think of HOT, Wildstang, of Cheesy Poofs their National Chairman's videos always pop right into my head, and I think, "service." It seems like I'm always hearing about one of those teams doing something amazing. In addition to that, each of the teams seem to have a great since of spirit. Not only are they excellent, they are well-balanced. Of course there are teams that do well in the area of service and spreading FIRST's messages or in competition, but I've never seen three teams that is as well-rounded as Wildstang, HOT, and Cheesy Poofs.

-Jamie

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

1625.

Such a short history, such a long list of accomplishments. Really a team to look up to for any veteran or rookie team.

Great season guys, keep it going. :)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Aside from all the obvious teams, those that have been established and have a case full of awards, I am inspired by all the rookie teams I see. I know that for the 1st year, with all that goes on in a FIRST contest, the confusion, the stuggles, and the hard work they put in just to complete their first robot is challenge enough, let alone they have a new control system to try and figure out. Some come to contests with their robot still in parts, but they are bound and determined to get it completed and compete on Friday. These teams are the future of FIRST and I wish them all the best of luck.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

For me personally, I am inspired by all of the girls participating in FIRST. Coming off the team, the Robettes (all girls), it is nice to see other girls at competition to get into the pits, work on the robot, or talk to the judges. You girls are so inspirational and you make it fun to go to competition. Boys you are important too :p. Thanks girls!
Keep up the good work!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I am continually inspired by a lot of teams and mentors but a few that stick out are 33, 1114, and 469.

The Killer Bees (33) are a truly class act. This season they invited us to collaborate on drivetrain design with them and two other teams. They helped us all season with programming, machining, and instituting a crab drive, something that no member of our team had ever done. They won their first Chairman's Award this season at the Kettering district event. I can't say enough how great and classy of a team they are.

Simbotics (1114) constantly inspires me to work harder and compete at a higher level. Their successes over the past 4 years are so deserved. I have never seen a team that works harder and is yet so open with all of their secrets.

Lastly, the Las Guerillas (469) inspire me each year with their designs. Every year i am blown away by what they do. Every single one of their robots is so unique and creative. Sometimes I wonder where they come up with some of their designs, but they are all awesome.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

When I saw this thread, the first team that came to mind was Team 188 Blizzard, the force from the north. :) As a high school student on an FRC team, FRC team 188 impressed me the most all around. Their students were the friendliest and most helpful out of any team I've ever met. Their mentors are incredible and anytime I need any advice or have any questions I would never hesitate to ask them. In addition to building notable robots each year, they have done so much for Canada FIRST, their community, alumni, and the FIRST community in general. Doing the international exchange with them as a part of Team 22 was one of the best experiences I ever had in FIRST.

A pair of teams that inspire me are teams 254 and 968. Every year when you decide that you've seen the best, these teams push the envelope every year. Cory, Travis, EJ, and Kirk are mentors I am glad I've had the opportunity to meet because what they help their students and teams become is phenomenal. 254 of course also has a great background greatly worthy of their Hall of Fame title and was just fantastic to learn about when I was by their booth in my freshman year.

Besides those, I am incredibly inspired by 1902. Their team is fantastic, everyone from their mentors, parents, and students. My weekend at Florida Regional was exponentially better meeting that great team.

For reference, the teams are different but many Team 4 alumni were previously a part of 22.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

If I made a list of all the teams that inspire it would go on and on and on...
However different teams impress me for different reasons.

111 - They have awsome swerve designs that have inspired much of 2079's swerves (although they look quite different). And how there robots always look really nice.

118 - Again the swerve drive is just a master piece. They always seem to be pushing forward for the next innovative deign in FIRST.

1625 - Again the drive train is very inspiring.

254/968 - I'm amazed by the whole collaboration thing, and they build really competitive robots.

1114 - Not only is the ability to turn out a quality product every year impressive, but they always seem to pick the right stratgy to play the game.

233 - There machining work never ceases to amaze.

111, 365, 67, 842, 254, 103 Simply because of their size and the impact they have had on FIRST. (not to mention they all build pretty dominate robots)

71, 217, 148, 188, 987, 126, 190, 191, 121, 125, 2056, 25, 47, 48, 45, 39, 33, 40, 20, 291, 330, 1717, 1771, 11, 79, 100, 1024, 175, 176, 177, 171, 16, 469,
and it goes on too...

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Here's some that I can think of at the moment.

11 - Mort has invited me to their school before and let me see how they ran their operation. They're a World Class team if not better and they are truly one awesome bunch of people.

25 - Love them or Hate them, 25 build some fantastic robots. Their 2006 bot instilled what dominance was into my head as a Freshman

103 - If you can win Jersey 4 years in a row you're doing something right.

217 - I've never met anyone on the ThunderChickens personally but I know they're an awesome team. They have an almost Rockstar style that I love in addition to the coolest name in FIRST (IMO).

229 - I remember seeing their 2007 robot at the Championship and they were the inspiration for 816's drive trains since then. I remember it as the first robot I'd ever seen that used bolts as Axles and I've used it ever since.

316 - Is one of My favorite teams in FIRST. They're an awesome group of people that build great machines. They also Co-Host Duel on the Delaware and I'd have to say that that's the Event that started it all for me.

1114 - Anyone remember 2008? How about 2007? 2006? Simbotics Dominates the field every year. Watching their performances makes me want to be that much better of A Driver, A team mate and a person.

There's many more but I'm out of time.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

190 and 125

Both of these teams in my mind are what FIRST envisioned when it was formed. 190 obviously being run on the WPI campus by world class students and engineers and 125 being run by college mentors of Northeastern University. Sometimes going as underrated teams, they are in my mind what all teams should strive to be. Both are heavily involved in their communities, opening their doors for anyone who wishes to enter either to join them or for mentorship. Intrinsic in the northeast for the Boston regional, it is safe to say that the Boston Regional would not be what it is today if it weren't for these two veteran teams. For that, I thank you 190 and 125.

Thanks for the kind words to 11 guys.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I am inspired by many, many teams. Some because of robot performance, some because of team performance, others because of quality. However, most have already been named above, so I'm going to just say my top 2.

365: As a team captain this year I have really tried to encourage 1511 to almost emulate this team's ideals. If you look at all they do, they are a clear chairman's team and a great group of people.

340: Not as well known as the team above but GRR has been a friend for many many years. At FLR, Karthik referred to 340 and 1511 as "the leaders of Rochester". We see them almost everywhere we go and they do so much to help this Rochester community, it is awesome to work with them and bring out the best in Rochester FIRST!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

MOE 365: they just are always there, smiling, whether they win, lose, tie, because they are always trying. they never cease to amaze me :)

Miss Daisy 341: they are so cool with their head things with the flower (you know what i'm talking about if you've seen them) and just overall remain excited and passionate about FIRST no matter what.

Falcon Robotics 842: they have some of the most innovative ways of doing things with robotics, like their totally-awesome underwater challenge. Not to mention their mentors are always willing to help with chairman's support at nationals.

Raider Robotix 25: They are our sister team and overall impress me all the time no matter what they're doing; whether its fixing their robot in the pits or just hanging out with our team, they see the message of FIRST and promote it all the time.

Nemesis 2590: They are like our seedling team and just overall cool. They dominate at NJ and inspired me to think about organizing a group to write a business plan on our team after their success in NJ.

Wildstang 111: I don't know if it's their amazing tie-dye shirt design or ability to build simple, and efficient, robots but they are an impressive team to me. I admire them greatly

Cybersonics 103: They always build awesome robots and do well at every competition no matter what. They just are always happy and excited about their team and are a very spirited and excited team in FIRST.

Cougar Robotics 1403: They are just SO cool no matter what; they host a kick-off event each year and have Monty Madness. They are also the most enthusiastic people to hang out with and i admire them greatly.

I know that there are a TON more, but these are the ones i vividly remember jumping up and down about :)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

This is a great thread. Here are the teams that I've been inspired by:

71: I've said this before, but they are one of the best. Just look at the students that have come from this team that are now leaders in FIRST in their own right. Amanda Morrison, Kevin Kolodziej, and Chris Noble, just to name a few. Then there's their 4 championships and an endless list of amazing robots.

111: similar to 71. Great mentors, great robots, and they produce students that go on to the engineering field.

217: see above.

245: see above. One of the coolest things that FIRST in Michigan did this year is to highlight what past students of teams are currently doing. 217 and 245 had so many students that are currently doing great things.

148: this team changed my perspective on robot design - back in 1997 that is. Their robot that year made me really realize what it means to think outside the box and they forever influenced many of the robots that I have had a hand in creating.

1114: See my description of 71, but I'm starting to think that 1114 is like 71 on steroids. These guys have produced more great students, great mentors, and great spin-off teams than any other team that I can think of. These guys really "get it" in a way that no one else does. All you have to do is look at the teams in their wake, and you see more inspiration than 20 teams combined. They spin off new and great teams like Krispy Kreme makes glazed donuts. And all of you guys that think that somehow 1114's greatness is somehow "unfair", just think about all of the time you have spent trying to out-do them and reflect on how much that desire to beat them has made you reach much deeper than you ever have before - that is where real inspiration comes from.

65: Please read all of this part - most of you will just look at my information and assume I'm giving a stupid plug for my team, which is really not true. If you've been around FIRST for a while, you may know that I never used to be with team 65. I was a mentor on team 308 for my first 8 years in FIRST, but to me team 65 symbolized all of that was good in FIRST. I used to come talk to their students and Ken Patton all the time since I loved what they were doing in all respects. I REALLY looked up to this team. After my time with 308 ended, Ken very graciously asked me to help out team 65 if I was available. Ever since then I have been a very loyal member of the Huskie Brigade, and I have been very proud to do so. With the impending consolidation of the Pontiac Schools, a lot has been up in the air, but Ken has remained firm in the reason he does FIRST and how he wants to proceed in the future. He is an amazing leader and the greatness of this team is a direct result of that.

There are many others, but these are SOME of my favorites. If I have more time in the future to write another long-winded post, I will update this with many more.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

This year more than ever, I was inspired by the teams who have taken their sponsors, and have turned them into lifetime partners. GM teams like 67, 1114, Motorola teams like WildStang, BAE Systems teams, NASA teams like Pink, the Robonauts, and the Cheesy Poofs, Johnson and Johnson teams like 75 and 88, 25 as the shining example of a BMS team, 148 and IFI, and specifically, Beatty International and 71. 217 from Ford. Delphi...etc..

These are teams who have unearthed something that I think FIRST never imagined would happen at such a large scale. Sure these companies are strong supporters of FIRST, but until you look at every single individual team, you don't realize how dynamic of a program FIRST and FRC can be. I see teams like 217, 67, and 111 and think, "Man I can't wait until we're that strong with our sponsors." Its just another special factor in the equation which makes these teams "elite." Something so unique to marvel at that you just can't help but want to be more like them. Its not just about any money the teams receive, machining help they get, its about the mentors they provide and the opportunities they bring to each and every student on the team. Now, I know there are other companies and teams out there who share this type of bond with their sponsors and mentors, but I am just citing out a few major programs.

Its something that's awe inspiring and so powerful in this program that truly embodies what FIRST set out to do: Captains of industry meet the future of industry. People like Paul Copioli, Bill Beatty, JVN; all engineers who work for a greater cause because of this program, and have probably found their second career: teaching.

MORT too has created somewhat of the same relationship in the past. BASF, Givaudan, BAE Systems, and Siemens have all provided us with whatever resource we've needed, monetary support, mentors, and most importantly, job opportunities. Yet, we're still building our foundation with these companies in hopes of reaching the level that 254 and 67 have reached. Its a level far beyond what any of us can expect, and its a level that's almost dauntingly difficult to achieve. These teams bring me hope, inspiration, and a sense of determination, and I thank you all for that. A message that I've learned from these teams in the past 3 years: Keep growing stronger with your sponsors, and soon they will become partners for life.

Sorry for the long post, but its something I've respected and admired about these teams and programs and its about time that credit is given where it is due.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Over the past three years I have gotten the chance to meet many amazing people from all over the country. I can honestly say that some of those people that I met have changed me for the better. Although each and every team in FIRST is a team to admire there are some that stand out above the rest.

Team 103: For teaching our lead mentor everything he knows. For always being there for our team and for all you do for the FIRST community.

Team 234: Meeting you for the first time in DC this year was a fabulous experience. You guys met the reputation that I have heard so much about all the way in Philly.

Team 316: Competition has always been a blast with you guys there with us. It wasn't the same without you at DC this year. It been a pleasure to know each and every one of you.

Team 357: Has been one of the nicest, most welcoming teams I have had the pleasure of knowing. Mentors and students alike are all dedicated to the program and the benefits it has to offer.

Team 365: Organizing a team from ten high schools is impressive enough, but its not quite enough for you guys. Your impact reaches all the way out to other countries. Sending supplies over seas to teams who don't have Wall-Marts...fantastic. It's been tons of fun hanging out with you guys over the years and I always look forward to the MOE Band playing at competitions.

Team 433: Everything you guys do is an inspiration to me. It was so cool to be there with you guys won chairman's. After that you went and won an EI at a regional where you didn't submit chairmans. You guys are truly an inspiration to everyone involved in the program.

Team 1507: Meeting you guys in Philly for the first time this year was a lot of fun. You guys preformed incredibly. Then being there when you won Newton was an awesome experience. Good luck next year, can't wait to see you again.

There are many more teams that could be easily added to this list and it has really been an honor to be part of this excellent opportunity and I look forward to the seeing all of you in the future.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Wow, Im surprised no one has mentioned these teams, or these guys. Or maybe them Or any of the Israeli teams

Or basically anyone who competes from outside the continental United States. If you guys think flying is a pain now try flying across international borders with the equipment to repair a robot. How about fundraising? These guys have to raise more money than most of us have to in a couple years if they want to compete at multiple regionals. Don't forget, Kickoff is at 10 AM on the East Coast, that is 4 AM for our Hawaiian friends. These teams are all class acts, not because they build good robots (and many of them do) but because they make it to competition year after year.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I was inspired by 2753. Freshman year, I performed in a FTC competition with some of the team members. Team Overdrive was there, and they obliterated the competition. I remember one match where they scored all of their pieces, so they started scoring the other teams pieces. This year, Team Overdrive came into FRC to compete. When I saw those yellow shirts with those spinning tires, I was flabbergasted. I knew they were going to perform extremely well, and they ended up winning the regional. Not only are they excellent on the field, but they are great people to talk to, and they can be heard throughout the stands.
I <3 Overdrive!!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I've been inspired by basically every team I've ever talked to, so I'll have to keep this short and exclude a few hundred teams. But trust me, if I've talked to you then you've inspired me.

The first team I was ever inspired by was Syntax Error. They're an FTC team whose number I don't know, but they basically broke the game at the 2006-7 FVC Hangin-A-Round event I went to. They had this really cool metal hopper that would slide up along the side of a goal and get 20 balls in easily, and they used the wall so that the only way to play defense on them would be to catch them before they got to the wall. They even made a rack and pinion system out of tank tread since Vex's system didn't exist yet. I was pretty inspired, and basically figured out that the name of the game is to think of a design that breaks it.

The next FTC year I got inspired by a few more teams. When I was at the competition, I completely misjudged what the game was about (the autonomous I had planned had us removing the opponent's rings from the field so that they could not use them, when the rings were less important than goal control). I was seriously a minute from just quitting and cheering on my old team when the team from Wisconsin Lutheran High came over and talked to me. The previous year, I helped them build a square robot when their robot design completely failed, and I guess they thought it was their turn to help me. They convinced me to use my lunch break to strip off the manipulator and make a defensive robot, then got 5 of their main builders to help. 2 frantic hours later, the robot got on the field and won every match I had left just by pulling the goals around and playing defense.

We didn't have the serpentine at the event, so I was the third alliance partner of the first alliance. I ended up helping them win a little bit, so the whole alliance got to go on to Atlanta. I lobbied the judges to give Wisconsin Lutheran the Inspire award, as that's basically the definition of gracious professionalism and they literally inspired me to win, but to no avail. They won the next year though.

If it weren't for either of these teams I would not be in FRC today, and I wouldn't be strategist either. Basically these two teams directly (or indirectly) showed that strategy is key.

I'll post FRC teams later, when I don't have class in 30 seconds ^_^

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Im inspired By.....

ALL the teams really every team does something different theirs no one team.
some of the more inspiring teams are 27, 67, 217, 111, 33, 247, 245, 47 and lots more!!!!

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Personally, I'm inspired by team 122. No matter what, they come in numbers, and they come in and out with a smile on their face.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

The first team I said I was inspired by is the first team on the list you linked us to. :p

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

111, 67, 233, 330, 118, 1625, 359, and of course all of Team IFI (in no particular order)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Teams that have inspired me personally are 11, 103, 433, 341, 816 and 1923

And of course my own team for helping me throughout the years :)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I stand corrected, not MANY people have mentioned these teams. Guess that will teach me to just do a quick scan. My bad.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Hmm... I've only been to local Regionals, so I can't answer nationwide. However, here goes, in no particular order:

433: All girls, Chairman's award several times, almost won it at Atlanta this year. Good luck in 2010!

103: Always amazing engineering, great driving, fantastic team.

816: Only first met you guys in Trenton this year, I was blown away by your robot. What astounded me was that you you a kit chassis! Major props, you make me feel better that we use one too.

2753: I will always be in awe of this fantastic team. In their first year in FRC, they managed to make it all the way to Einstein. They have a fantastic robot, they are nice people, and they really make me want to achieve.

357: Your Jester Drive makes me want to use mecanums this coming year. Hope the GDC allows us to.

423: This may be my own team, but our poor record really makes me want to do better. I don't know if it's a combination of going to two Regionals for the first time ever this year, seeing all the really nice robots, or because next year is my last student year, but I really want to achieve something special in 2010. Hopefully this summer I'll be able to attain my major goals for the team next year.

I can't think of any more teams that inspire me, but good luck to all of them out there. I hope that one day my team and I can inspire younger people and teams one day as well.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

330,1717,39,60 bunch of those west coast teams.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

A team that has and will always, inspire me is team 365. MOE blows me away with what they give back to their community, how they spirit they give in competitions, and how much they spread the word of FIRST. I have always looked up to the miracle workerz ever since my freshman year, and I will always remember them. The first time I saw MOE at a competition, I thought to myself "wow, that is an amazing team." I am happy that 365 won national chairman's because they honestly do robotics 365 days a year.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Three favorites from this year:

2834: Awesome bot. You found a nice niche for yourselves ferrying empty cells and you preformed phenomenally at states (being an alliance captain at states as a rookie was amazing in an of itself)! Keep up the great work!

2771: Most spirited team I saw this year. I actually have memories of one of the girls from 2771 coordinating our section of the stands on how to do the wave. No one can say that you didn't earn your spirit awards! You guys rock

910: One of the nicest teams I met this year. You have some great members, an awesome robot and SWEET HATS! I can't wait to see what you guys come up with for next year.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I know that when I go to regionals or worlds, I sometimes see teams and I think "Man, I wish I was like that team. I wish I had that many gold medals and regional wins under my belt."

But then I realize that it's all...I don't want to say fake... but to me, it's just a dream or a prize...nothing really WANTS me to the get there...but then there are people in my very own team that inspire me.

When I was a freshman, I was inspired by two people, our president at that time, and our mentor. Probably the two coolest, nicest, and hardest working people I have ever met. I saw them lead a group of teenagers, and I saw them lead us into regionals, and I saw them tackle problems head on and each day I sought to better my way of thinking and my thought process.

Today, I'm a senior on the team and I really can't look "up" to get inspired, although my mentor never seizes to amaze me. Then I saw young and determined students come in robotics, and they simply amaze me. I see a student who is in his first year with FRC, and he designs our FRC robot. I see a student who is in his first year with robotics as a whole, and in a short period of time, he has learned LabView and he is helping with our anti-slip code.

While some teams are simply great. I mean 1771 and 1746 have touched me personally with their support and graciousness, and I do look up to each on of those teams.

But I find TRUE inspiration in the people around me. Watching so called "ordinary" people, do extra-ordinary things every day.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

If I truly had to pick the first team that inspired me when I got in to FIRST would have to be 68 T3(truck town thunder). I saw them my first year as a freshmen on the team and how organize and well run the group was made me see FIRST in true light. Now finishing off my 6th year and being able to team up with them in Atlanta made my year. That would have to be the first team to inspire me into getting into FIRST.

Now, cling up on my 7th year, I still have that excitment on the team and will remember that team as one of the greatest teams in FIRST

Of course, there are all the other teams I look at as great teams:
11, 67, 111, 217, 247(my team), 280, 503, 1918, 1114, 1250, 1701, 85, 2645, just to name a few.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Most inspirational rookie team: 2826

Teams that inspired me to come back after comps: ALL TEAMS at the Milwaukee regional. Their spirit and attitude was amazing.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I've only been involved in FIRST for a short period of time, so I have limited resources for team numbers and names, but I have most definitely been inspired by:

1902, Exploding Bacon. Like everyone has already said, they're just an amazing team. From the pits to the dance floor to playing "oink, oink, boom" in the middle of a local park, they're awesome.

Team 1071, MAX. GUS started out as the Tri-Town Duct Tape Bandits, MAX's turf included, but they soon got enough interest to start their own team. We're sister teams and we love working together. They're great people and they always have their contagious enthusiasm.

Team 839, Rosie Robotics. At World Championships in 2008, they played for their late mentor, and that inspired me greatly. The team is full of kind people and they always have fun.

Lastly, there's a team that I met at World Championships this past year that opened my eyes to what FIRST is really all about. I meat a team called W.A.F.F.L.E.S (Wild About Friends, Family, Legos, Engineering, and Science) from Ontario, Canada. This team was a mix of FLL and Jr. FLL kids, the ages ranging from 4-8. Not only did that show me how much young kids enjoy science and engineering, but they also told me about how they don't have sponsors or anything, it's just two families (siblings, cousins, etc.) who were close in age and they wanted to make a robotics team. FIRST gave them that opportunity. They inspired me the most.

-Jordie

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I never did make my post about which FRC teams inspire me. I mean, in particular, as every team does :)

The other members of my own team do, but I'm not here to talk about them.

One of our mentors always tells us to take what you do and make it the most important thing in the world; become a master at it and excel. The teams that do this are what really inspire me in everything I do.

That's what 2062 does with safety. They've taken their very professional, well-run team and steered it in a great direction. They're quite possibly the most safety conscious team in FIRST, and they have a Championship UL Safety award to prove it. Team 2062's also a very organized, well-run team. They know what they're doing and are smart about it. I'd bet money they have an RCA in the very near future.

Other teams I've noticed that have had a direct impact on me for various reasons... 2970, with no FIRST experience directly, leading an alliance with legendary teams like 33 and 102 to the semifinals in Newton was pretty awesome. They basically show that if you're smart and resourceful, you can do anything. 1625 and 1918 achieved greatness with simple but VERY effective robots that didn't require a massive machine shop to build. 2826 is the epitome of the Rookie All-Star; they look like they've been doing this for years and are going to be a force to be reckoned with in Wisconsin Regionals to come. Never forget Wisconsin vets 1675 and 93; they're both extremely graciously professional that never fail to impress me in some way or another.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Over the summer I've been reading a lot of the 'mentor built/student built' threads and many of those other touchy topics. In almost every thread, one team came up as the prime example of how teams should work together and what to emulate: Team 45

Its really quite hard to understand how 45 is NOT in the HOF yet. I was more inspired by reading posts from Andy Baker and posts ABOUT this team than I have by many others all year long. I really never realized how much this team has given to FIRST. So I went back even further, looking through any of their robots I could find. What turned up was always one innovation after another. Its really remarkable what their students can learn over the years.

So here's to you 45, and to next year's HOF induction;)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

You know, until I just read your post I had forgotten that they weren't in the HOF. In my mind, I guess they were there already because they deserve it so much. I agree with everything else you've said- Team 45 has always been an inspiration to me, and I know many, many others who would say the same. I was very excited to see 236's induction to the HOF this year, but now I know who I'll be rooting for in 2010.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

There are a lot of great teams that impress me, but four that really stand out in the northern midwest area are 93 NEW Apple Corps, 537 Charger Robotics, 1625 Winnovation, and 1816 Green Machine. Our team doesn't want to beat these teams, we want to be these teams.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Few teams come to mind when I think of this subject. But I hate to sound like I'm going with the crowd but I want to say HOT. I don't think of chairmans awards and robots when I think of 67. I think of the last match of Semi-finals which I can imagine 67 will admit was their hardest match of the season. When our alliance had lost (1250,503,280) and HOT turned around and started cheering on our teams. I mean that just blew me away. I know there are alot of teams that would do this but the energy they had for our alliance was just crazy.

Another team that comes to mind while I'm thinking about it is the Killer Bees.
I happen to know several of them personally and they are just the nicest people to get along with ever.

other teams include 247, 1250, 503, 111, and 70

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Bit of a bump, but I forgot to mention team 2502... they're a Minnesota team that really "gets it". They're extremely dedicated and enthusiastic about FIRST and I keep hearing good things coming from them. They work hard, play hard, and never stop.They're definitely a team to watch and look to in the future, if they keep it up great things are coming from them.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I have to second this. 2502 I've only known for a short time, but RC and I have seen how much these guys "get it," as Chris said. Just in their second year they're planning out their state's FIRST offseason competition and planning out a great new year. Their enthusiasm is really refreshing. =)

In reality I guess I could say I really admire any very young or rookie team who "gets it" from the start and really just jumps into the mix. You can rarely tell these teams apart from the veterans.

Oh and also they're the newest EWCP team :D

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

Thank you Chris! We always look upon your team along a few other as leaders whom we can follow for examples. I will relay this to my team, and again, thank you!

Thanks Akash! :) You've been a great help to team 2502!


In any case, I will always be learning from your two teams!! :)

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I would say that I am inspired by teams like team #93 and team #1714

(never forget the day when 2826 picked us for alliance partners at the 10,000 Lakes regional and I said something (forget what) and I guess I had my grammer wrong because the representative from team #1714 corrected me >.<) I was just a little nervous.

Re: Teams I'm Inspired By
 

I second that notion and I would like to thank Kyle Miller, without him none of 2502 would be involved in robotics and we would not have a team. He did everything for his first and only year of the competition (or tried to do everything he possibly could) now he is at MiT