[GaryVoshol]

As Ed notes, these factors all lead toward success. However, some of them are essential to success.

I voted for dedicated students. As important as mentors are, without students there is no team. The mentors can only do so much; there must be students there to inspire. That said, good mentors can provide inspiration so that students become more dedicated. See what I mean about several of the factors being critical to success?

Similar connections can be made to support by sponsors, school and parents. Without sponsors, there's no money to fund the team. Without parental support, the students won't be there to get inspired. Etc.