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Originally Posted by billbo911
Based on the quoted rule, I believe Mark had no choice, he had to make the call that he did. No where in the rule does it say that the Captain needs to verbally request a substitute. It is based entirely on the coupon presented. As to which team needs to be replaced, that must be a verbal communication. So, obviously we are missing some information as to why Madtown was substituted out. I can only assume it was due to a verbal communication error. Again, that is my assumption based on comments in this thread.
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I believe the head ref in this case had a choice to make, even though the rules as stated say that if a team hands in a backup coupon, the backup robot will be brought in.
Quote:
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The Head Referee has the ultimate authority in the ARENA during the event, but may receive input from additional sources, e.g. Game Designers, FIRST personnel, and technical staff. The Head Referee rulings are final. The Head Referee will not review recorded replays under any circumstances.
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According to this verbiage, the head ref has the power to make whatever call he sees fit after receiving input and reviewing the rules. Yes, the rules state that if a team turns in a backup coupon, you will receive a backup team - but if a kid mistakenly hands the ref the wrong coupon, realizes the mistake and is willing to forfeit the correct coupon (and time out) for the situation, does it hurt to vary from the rules in this instance? If the other alliance is in favor of this variation from the rules, does it hurt anyone?
I guess if anything, there needs to be a clause added to the manual that states something along the lines of 'after receipt of an alliances back-up coupon, and
a verbal confirmation that this is the coupon they desire to use, a backup team will be brought in for this alliance.'