[EricH]

I suggest taking some lessons from the masters, Andy Baker and Chris Fultz of the IRI planning committee.

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/papers/2076

Start now by considering:

--Dates (what other local events are locked in already for the timeframe you want, when is your preferred venue open)
--Venue (typically a high school gym, but keep your mind open--you'll need enough for a full field plus team pits)
--# of teams, and registration fee
--Volunteer commitments--for an FRC event, you'll need at LEAST 20 to keep the field running smoothly, preferably with at least a couple or three key volunteers having experience at the regionals (FTA, Head Ref, Field Supervisor). Add in a similar number for setup/teardown, though those can be "hey, you guys want to stick around afterwards and give us a hand?"
--Add-ons. Do you want to try a lock-in, mentor round, or side competitions like an obstacle course or truck pull? Better find someone to lead those up.