[cosmo]

Great thoughtful discussion.
We do not have a FRC program affiliated with our FTC program. I see the FRC programs being "pushed" by FIRST. They will provide seed money to get a program started. I personally feel FRC is too expensive and too heavily dependent on mentors. From what I've seen, FRC programs end up being Dad clubs where dads continue the program after their kids leave.

FTC should be about the kids doing the work themselves. With the start of last season, I see a transition to programs that allow for more organized 'fabrication' and outsourcing of components. I don't necessarily see that as a good thing. Keeping the cost down and the barrier low so more kids can participate is key. Anything that helps to reach that goal is great in my book. Non Tetrix parts is great. Should be a fun challenge this year.