[M. Mellott]

So now that I’ve had a chance to catch up on work (and sleep), I finally have a chance to mention a few people:

Jimmy, Dave, and the planning committee - Congratulations on a fantastic inaugural QC Regional. You and the Event Volunteers had everything running as smooth as a veteran event.

Machine shop crew – I know many other teams took advantage of your services, but thanks especially for being so readily available in our time of need on Thursday.

Andy Baker and the Inspectors (new band name?) – Thank you for all of your efforts, including your assistance in a torn-bag-during-transport issue.

1014 – Congratulations on winning the Chairman’s Award

45, 781, and 3940 – A great display of teamwork and tenacity out there to win one of the most competitive and balanced eliminations I’ve seen. It was an honor to compete against you.

379 – Our NEOFRA friends. Nothing annoyed me more than to have to face you so early in the elimination rounds. Your drive team had that robot dialed in, taking the first QF match and forcing us to come back in a second and third hard-fought win. I always enjoy working with your kids—great to play both with and against you.

1038 – We have partnered with you at least one regional a year in every year of our existence, so I’m glad we could finally come away with some hardware together. You were a great alliance partner.

48 – Well, what can I say that I haven’t already? I’ve been a part of this team for 10 long years now, and I’m so happy to be a part of this truly memorable season. Sorry we couldn’t go 3-for-3, but there’s always the World Championships. Much pride and warm fuzzies go out to the students who have worked hard this season—your efforts are being rewarded.

3193 – The other half of my FIRST family. This was the first-ever FIRST award in our short 3-year existence as a team, and I have so much pride and love for each and every one of you. You really came together as a team last weekend, and you finally turned all of your trials and struggles into success. To our drive team…simply an amazing effort!

I want to especially thank an unsung hero: Keith Rising, Team 48’s drive team coach. Though he’s been a great friend for many years, I’ve never had a chance to work with him from the other side as an alliance partner. The calmness and positive vibe that he brings to everyone during the strategy sessions is amazing. Win or lose, he’s so upbeat and supportive of everyone, especially of the students. His effort to go seek out 3193’s drive team after they missed the last-second basket that would have won the second Final’s match and make sure they weren’t feeling down about the loss brought tears. He’s a great teacher and someone that every team should have a chance to work with.

Thank you all for a great event and here’s looking forward to seeing everyone in St. Louis!