[Mr. Van]

Some additional thoughts...

Regarding the "Robot" yell - Teams are encouraged to do this by the UL Safety Judges. Yes, the yelling of "ROBOT!" is annoying (I usually respond with "POLO!") but that's not the problem. The problem is that some seem to believe that loudly yelling "ROBOT!" gives them the right of way - so much so that they run people over who don't clear a path. FIRST can start with the basic idea that while people are asked to clear a path for robots, people ALWAYS have the right of way. Being late for your match doesn't mean you have the right to run people over - regardless of what you yell.

Regarding saving seats - I tell my team to go into the stands and "take up space". Early on they sit apart and take up some room - indicating that we would like to have other members of our team join us throughout the day in this location. I instruct them to allow anyone to come into this space and sit for as long as they want - they can't save any seats. I also encourage them to give their seats up to "outside" spectators. As for teams that do "save" seats I suggest this conversation:
"Mind if I sit here?"
"These seats are saved for team XXX."
"Awesome! I've always wanted to be part of team XXX!"
(Sit down and ask them about their amazing team.)

I've done this several times. At one event, we ended up mixed up with another team throughout the entire section. It was awesome - Lots of new friends!

I love the idea of a video/skit about pit courtesy! What about an animation contest - like the one for safety? (A GP animation?)

Just some musings...

- Mr. Van
Coach, Robodox