[LeelandS]

Eric pretty much got it.

We have about 6 or 7 major (meaning each student is assigned to one primarily) subteams a year. Promotions (the equivalent of most team's marketing teams), software, electrical, and about 4 mechanical teams, divided into each aspect of the physical robot; typically drives, acquisition, elevation/storage/body and usually a special team for what's game-specific.

When kids submit applications for their teams, they number three of these teams in order of most interest. Students are usually placed in the team they sign up, but if team leadership feels otherwise, they aren't. For example, when I signed up for software my Sophomore year and was placed on a mechanical team, I was told it was to expand my horizons. Which it did. So things like that may occur, if you feel it's necessary.

Most importantly, make sure everyone is OK with their assignment. Unhappy students are unproductive workers. Also, don't pair up 2+ people who you think can't work together on the same subteam (not for reasons of dislike, but
for reasons of lack of focus).

I hope this helps, feel free to ask if you need any help.
-Leeland