[AlexD744]

I love these threads, it's so interesting to see the different perspectives. On our team, we currently have a set coach. She is an alumna of our team and was on the drive team herself for three years. She focuses on strategy and all of the things that fall under that category, and is really good at it!

The team that works with her has to have several qualities, including:
1. They NEED to be coach-able! When I was a driver, the worst things always happened when I didn't follow my coach. (thankfully that didn't happen often)
2. Responsibility and dedication to the team. If they don't show up for a match, it's BAD! And if they are dedicated to the team, they will strive to be a better driver.
3. Ability to drive the robot. I would say this is the point at which this comes into play. If they above two aren't met, it doesn't matter if you can drive well because you're either going to do the wrong thing (not listen to coach) or not show up to a match (irresponsible).
4. A sense of calm under pressure. If your driver freaks out when the robot doesn't do what it's supposed to do, it's BAD. You can still recover a match by playing another role in the strategy, but not if your driver freezes.
5. Good chemistry with the other 3 members. +1 to the advice about creating the number one team, not finding the number 1 individuals.
6. An ability to communicate with other teams (not as important because only the coach and maybe one other person is necessary in a strategy meeting, but still a plus)
7. The controversial one: Start young. Not as important, but it gives your drive team a very good future if it's possible. I'd pick a sophomore/freshman over a senior if they had the same above qualifications. But this is a tricky and balanced decision, and a lot of thought needs to go into this. (So much so that a whole thread could be on this topic)

Other things are important, but I'd say these are the primary things. Note: my opinions, not my whole teams opinions.