[Boltman]

Originally Posted by T^2

In that case, let's take it to the logical extreme, and declare everyone a winner on Kickoff day. That would work, right?

No. Two championships cheapens the experience.

This is basically forced mediocrity.

My team was upset after we were selected in the second round and getting bounced in QF's after being in SF's the week prior (as third wheel) against a deeper talent pool.... knowing we were highly sought after by nearly all of the strongest alliances in the third round as certain picks. I had to explain to them why we did not want to be a third wheel as our ticket to the worlds we take where we are picked second round and its on us to win if we are able..they all understood, not sure how I explain the two championship model as not everyone can be a winner...hard work and innovation should count....entry should be earned and should be difficult. Rather sit as a second versus in as a third when your stats say you are a truly a second otherwise. I as a mentor knew going in we needed to win one of the regionals we registered for, we didn't and that's 100% on us to do better next year or gain entry with one of the two remaining non-competitive methods or as a long shot wildcard...it should be hard. With failure comes significant improvement.

This is making 1000's of kids third wheels...by design and its too easy. Its good enough championship x2...in 2017. The world does not operate that way. Where's the life lesson for the kids? Its tough out there and FIRST should reflect that challenge every chance they get rather than seeking "profit" and "mediocrity" that teaches nothing good, in an organization promoting non-profit and STEM.