[cadandcookies]

We've found that successful drivers (on our team, at least), typically have three traits-- they are calm, quick-thinking, and they have as much practice as we can give them. Last year our primary driver didn't listen at all, but he was also one of the most successful ones we've had in recent memory. He knew what had to be done and how to do it, and he got extremely close to bringing home our first blue banner.

I would argue that perhaps even calmness isn't necessary, but that it really comes down to practice and quick thinking. All the drivers really have, other than their robot, is their practice, whatever rough "strategy" they can bring to the field (as much as people tout these, I think it typically comes down to "score points in whichever way we're best at"), and their quick reactions to whatever unique circumstances are thrown their way.

That being said, there are just my experiences, having been a member of my team's drive team, and I'm sure others have found even more successful methods.