Thanks to JVN for airing this issue. Science and technology can solve many problems, but they cannot change the fact that jealousy is a very corrosive and destructive force. We cannot prevent people from feeling jealous of another team's repeated successes, but we can make it unacceptable for those feelings to be expressed in the kind of ways that 1114 had to suffer in Pittsburgh. For this to happen, the "silent majority" must not remain silent. In most cases, a gentle rebuke is probably all that is required - we don't have to be obnoxious to deal with those who are behaving in an obnoxious way.
I've been fortunate enough to see 1114's robots up close on several occasions at Championships and at IRI, and to be able to talk to their team members. I have come away from those interactions believing that there is no reason why our team cannot aspire to be as good as they are and achieve some of the same success. Their success is not magic, and it's certainly not "unfair". It's inspirational.
I would love to have 1114 (or any of the other powerhouse teams that have been mentioned in this thread) come and inspire us up close at the Granite State Regional next year
