[Dan Petrovic]

The quote in my signature references what happened at the 2007 Granite State Regional. A bit of a throwback, but I took a break from FIRST while I was in college. I just got back into it last month with my old team, so my stories are all going to be from 2008 and earlier.

Anyway, Team 1991 was the only rookie team at the event that year and they hailed from the American School for the Deaf located near Hartford, CT. My team sat behind them in the stands during the course of the competition and we noticed that instead of clapping, they all rapidly waved their hands in the air to signal applause.

So, when 1991 was called out for their inevitable Rookie All-Star Award, instead of clapping, we waved our hands in the air just as they did. Slowly, but surely, the sound of hands clapping died and the arena grew silent. Judges, referees, volunteers, students, and mentors alike all signed applause to honor the rookies.

It was easily the most touching moment I have experienced in FIRST. I think it'll be tough to top that.