[omalleyj]

Damage.
Most teams seem to be following the Ri3D approachs, all of which have vital assemblies spending time outside the protection of the frame perimeter. Ask yourself if your pickup/shooter/catcher is going to function after a solid hit at speed.
Make things robust and easily repaired/replaced. Bring plenty of spare materials. Avoid difficult to fabricate (or obtain for COTS) items.