[Jonathan Norris]

I might not be adding much to this thread, but I want to add my support for 1114 and all they do.

When I started my FIRST experience back in 2004 and 2005 I heard the same voices that criticized 1114. I quickly got to know the students and mentors involved in 1114 and figured out no its not that they are doing anything the wrong way, its just that they work harder and are more professional then we are. That was really my turning point in FIRST, thats when I figured it out, 1114 has inspired me throughout the years to build better robots, and build a better team. I've got to know alot of the people involved in 1114, and once you get to know them you wonder how can anyone hate this group of people?

I've known for years that 1114 has haters, I've heard the haters complaining about them year after year at GTR. This year I hope the FIRST community will help us take a stand against the negativity thrown their way (and the way of other powerhouse teams), and appreciate how much we can learn and be inspired by them.