[dtengineering]

I've had the pleasure of judging RCA for the past two years. We've seen some great presentations over the years... some "professional", some "theatrical". Actually, I shouldn't compare "professional" to "theatrical"... the more creative presentations have been very professional, as well.

What makes the presentation a great one though, is that the team is able to present their accomplishments in a convincing manner that helps us to understand the team's role in the event and the impact of the event.

Compiling a log book of photographs, news stories, "thank you" letters and other documentation of your activities over the course of the year can be a big help in demonstrating the "sustained excellence" of your team's activities. The judging team that I have worked at has taken advantage of the opportunity to review this documentation and return it to the teams at the end of the event.

Make the most of your five minutes to present your activities and achievements in an engaging, organized way that is right for your team. I think I can speak on behalf of all the RCA judging teams when I say we will do our honest best to recognize the team that best meets the award criteria. I think I also speak for all the RCA judges when I congratulate the many teams who make this an incredibly difficult task.

Jason

P.S. Just for clarity, although there is an FRC team number associated with my CD profile, I only began judging after the team folded. It was a great experience to go from the pits to the judges' room... I can 100% guarantee that the judges are just as impartial, enthusiastic, and driven to find the most deserving team as you'd hope. There are always many more teams at the event whom we would like to recognize than there are awards that can be presented.