[Doug G]

This topic has been hard to get off my mind... I read Van and Sanddrag's post and agree so strongly. Then I go back to Jim's post and I also agree with him as well.

So guess what. FIRST should do what is in FIRST's mission.
- If they want to keep the feel of a 6-week build - mimicking real world engineering challenges - then go for it... Keep it 6 weeks, no withholding allowance. Some without enough mentor support or experience, may field robots that are limiting. The Jones' will continue to inspire and amaze.
- If they want to involve more students in robot building and develop a robot competition that is exciting to watch. Then open up the season. More teams will find success and the Jones' will still continue to inspire and amaze.

What I can't stand is this half way stuff. We call it 6 weeks - but it is really 3-4 months. FIRST needs to decide what direction do they want FRC to go. Which experience do they want students to have?

Personally, I think the 6 week experience is like no other experience kids face and it many ways it is a great opportunity for them to learn skills that have nothing to do with robotics. To meet an almost impossible deadline, with minimal and insufficient resources, and not a how-to-book within sight. Aren't these the characteristics employers want these days? In the end, isn't that what is most important?

As far as my burn out goes... If they go with an open build season, it will force me to cut back. I'd like to think that I can do this, but in the back of my mind, I'm afraid I might not be able to follow through. Perhaps go to set work days or mandatory days off as others suggest. It will sure test me.