[barn34]

Again, I can see both sides of this discussion have equal points of validity. However, as a huge basketball fan and former player, it would be extremely awesome to be able to cut down the net if we happened to win our regional. It's one of those things that I've seen done dozens and dozens of times and it gives me goosebumps every time I see it. Having this translated over to this years competition, at least in some symbolistic way, would be good enough for me, even if that doesn't mean we get to physically cut the nets ourselves.

If the traditional net cutting ritual is still not allowed for whatever reason that FIRST decides, providing a net with the trophy/banner for the teams of the winning alliance should be a good compromise. That way the respective team mentor(s) can cut up the net with their own team members on their own time (or decide to keep whole to display with their trophy) and not cause any of the issues people are concerned with. The winning team would donate the money for the ceremonial net, if needed, and then no time or actual field equipment was 'vandalized' and nobody can be 'offended' by a traditional sports ritual invading FIRST. Would anyone have an issue with this?