[robochick1319]

This is not a new strategy in the FIRST universe. However, it is a very risky strategy. If the #1 alliance came up to you and said, "Play dead and we'll pick you second," you have two choices: trust them and do it, or play it safe and make yourself available. It is a very risky strategy and in my many years of doing this, I have found that people's promises are not reliable.

It is important to remember that teams are made up of many individuals who may or may not the details of the strategy. Student A could tell you one thing because he or she honestly believes it is true, but could be totally unaware of what Students B, C, D, E and Mentors A, B, C (etc) are planning.

Did they lie to you? Possibly. Did they get lucky? Absolutely.

FIRST is great at teaching students about gracious professionalism and the ability to overcome obstacles. But it is not an unrealistic sport. There is lying, cheating, and unfairness. But that is life. The best lesson for our students is to teach them how to deal with the negative aspects of FIRST (and life) and overcome them to succeed.

Besides, that kind of behavior brings bad karma anyway. Believe it.