[kevincrispie]

The teams at championship never cease to amaze me. A few shout outs to some special teams that deserve recognition:

The HOT Team: I went by their pit soon after I arrived on Wednesday and they immediately greeted me. Later on, when they had more time, they were very eager to explain aspects of their robot. Their machine this year was amazing, and HOT always wows me with their clever, out of the box designing. From the side hanging gas spring hanger in 2010 to this harvester, HOT designs have taken on a distinct image and are very effective. Stay HOT, my friends

Rush: After 971 had trouble for the end of qualifications-we were dead in the last 2.5 matches-they picked us from the 8th spot when we doubted that we were going to be playing in the afternoon. We were glad we had the opportunity to play with you guys in elims and in that first match. If only out robot problems had gone differently, that first match would have been more exciting.

The Cheesy Poofs: The Poofs have helped us multiple times over the past few years, and their support has been instrumental to our rise as a team. Championship 2012 was no different. The 254 student programmer was helping us in our pit when we found we had been picked by Rush, scheduled to play the Poofs in the quarterfinals. The gracious professionalism exhibited by 254 leaves no doubt as to why they are in the Hall of Fame.

Simbotics: The team that I probably look up to the most in FRC. When I came by, the students were all knowledgeable about the robot, and eager to share despite being busy. You guys definitely deserved the CCA, it was a long time coming. Coming by your pit helped me and I'm sure several others realize why 1114 is so good. Every year, I pay special attention to the machine the St. Catherine's team has produced. 1114 is the definition of inspiring, and their team model is one that I admire immensely.

Killer Bees: The enthusiasm on your team was amazing. I was very impressed with how your team clustered around the pit excitedly as if it were a "hive". 33 was very eager to share their design with me and I have to say I got some ideas for coming years. 33 was one of the pits that I specifically brought a new member to go see. Much the same as 1114, you not only have great robots, but also great people.

D'Penguineers: I saw the offensive onslaught 1717 brought on at CVR, and it was definitely more exciting in person. Then, being able to talk to you at CVR and Champs was an inspiring and enlightening experience. Your robot this year was so well built and well driven. Thank you for being so open and informative about your design.

High Rollers: Team 987 was right next to us in the Curie Division pits and I finally met you guys and saw your team in action. Your Einstein appearance was very well deserved. 987 is a class act, and our team was honored to work next to 987. We can only hope to play with you in some event in the future.

Thanks to all of those who took an interest in our robot and stopped by our pit. Even though most of the time our crew was emotionally down with the frequency of robot failures, the folks coming around and asking questions were a bright spot in our day. We feel that we built a solid robot this year, and it was awesome to share it with so many great young minds.

There were many other amazing and inspiring teams and individuals at St. Louis who deserve a mention. These are the ones that come to mind right now that I had a personal interaction with. If I remember more, I can give more shout outs. These teams I definitely caught being good.

Thanks to the folks who made champs such a memorable experience.

-Kevin