As a warm-up exercise, participate in a fall off-season event. I know of two in Indianapolis - the
CAGE Match (10/20) and the
BPRC (11/10). Coordinating the logistics of transporting students to and from an event, while managing them at said event, can go a long way toward making yourself comfortable as a head coach and others comfortable with you at that position. Also, fall offseason events can go a long way toward inspiring those new to FRC - students and mentors alike. The 1781 Electric Eagles - another Chicago team, about 4 miles away from you - are registered for the October event.
If you haven't already, make sure you're registered as the Main Team Contact in
TIMS. That way you get all official email blasts; also, keep track of the
FRC blog.