|
Re: Pre-season workshops
With the huge growth in Washington State teams we (our team) decided about 4 years ago to put on a workshop specifically for Rookies (and second year teams) It has been pretty successful with 200 students and mentors attending it this year. We ask other teams to help put on 1 hour talks on topics specifically designed to help new teams.
Our team also hosts about 6 rookie teams on the Sunday after kickoff and we help them build their kitbots so they have something to work with almost immediately. Last year 2 of the kitbot builders won Rookie All Star. We also have the rest of their teams that aren't working in the shop sit in and participate in our initial strategy sessions about the new game.
We also participate in veteran workshops (2 this year) where members from teams all over the state talk about different topics which appeal to all teams from rookies to veterans.
The workshops are all successful in a number of ways. Of course it is tough to impart a huge amount of information or get hands on experience in the limited time but the biggest benefit is for teams to meet each other and know that there are plenty of places out there to get help.
I would encourage any state or region to put these on. It really does build friendships and gracious professionalism for your area.
|