[FIXIT]

Originally Posted by BoilerMentor

Unfortunately, we will not be attending Buckeye again until the event is officiated by a different head referee. This is not because of the obvious liberties taken with the rules (which so many teams complained about), but because I have never seen an FIRST volunteer behave so inappropriately in their interaction with students. He ignored the drive team member standing in the question box for at minimum a single match. He would not allow them to show him the rule in question. He was standing uncomfortably close to our driver, speaking loudly, with an angry tone (I won't say yelling). When another student team member tried to diffuse the situation politely he was told to, "Step back". I observed the interaction and I'm proud of the way that my students handled themselves. They were polite, professional, and did not escalate the situation. The bottom line is that I will not allow my students to be treated in this manner.


All of that said. The other teams at the competition were great. We'd love to play with you in the future, but it will not be in Cleveland.

We had a similar situation with our team captain while she was trying to get clarification on a ruling. The referee really needs to consider what the purpose of FIRST is all about and practice "Gracious Professionalism" when dealing with students. These are great teaching moments and as mentors we should take advantage of it.