[LeelandS]

So, here's my take.

I've taken a stance previously in that breaking the rules during the match (as long as it doesn't damage your opponents robot, is overly aggressive, etc.) is okay. It can provide a strategic advantage that can be just as much a part of the game as any other. In 2011, it was taking tubes from the opponent's lane. I advocated that strategy because it wasn't aggressive, and it was blatant and obvious. So there is one take on it.

On this particular strategy, I'd have to take an opposite stance on this matter. Yes, it's an applicable strategy, and yes, it's not overaggressive or damaging. But the problem I have with it is you're attempting to take advantage of a staffing issue. You're not blatantly breaking the rules in the game, you're trying to sneak a rule violation by the referees. And THAT I don't think is really fair, not just to the other teams, but to the referees who volunteered their time to learn these rules and are trying to enforce them to the best of their abilities. Imagine you were a referee. How would you feel if you found out teams have been blatantly breaking the rules just because they knew/thought you couldn't see it? I know I'd feel very disrespected and disappointed in the conduct of those team. But maybe that's just me.

In short, yeah, you may be able to get away with this strategy. But is it really a competitive advantage worth teaching your students that it's okay to cheat as long as you don't get caught?

Just my thoughts.