[AlexD744]

I think the driver of this change was districts. As districts become more prevalent, average event size decreases, meaning fewer rookies at events. If the 1 or 2 rookies in attendance don't meet the qualifications for the award, it shouldn't be given out. Furthermore, in the district model, while winning RAS at a district allows you to present at the District Championship, chances are if you're not deserving at your district, you will not win at the district championship, meaning you are not forfeiting a slot at worlds.

That being said, I love the idea of inspiring lots of rookies by allowing them to see the world championship, and am kind of sad that this change affected some regionals, but in the future, it should be less of a problem. HQ needs to make sure they keep giving out enough RAS's at the district champs.