[DaveL]

My suggestion is to build a robot this fall.
While doing this, learn about how to build a frame, install wheels, transfer power from motors to the wheels and install the electronic modules.

If funds are available buy tools now like; a band saw, sander, drill press, drills, drill bits, files, wrenches, nuts and bolts, rivets, rivet guns, screw drivers, #25 and #35 chain with a chain breaker for each size.

Buy material like plywood 1/4" and 3/4" thick, 1" square aluminum tubes, sheet aluminum 1/8" thick and 1/8" thick ABS or Polycarb plastic.

Read the Kit of Parts assembly manual.
Review the available parts at AndyMark and Vex.

Look at lots of robot videos to see how those parts have been used in the past.

Like others mentioned: simulate a past game and then watch videos of the top teams to understand their strategy and construction techniques.

Have the programmers get their development environment set up and start coding. Test different ways of setting up your joysticks. Give your team a chance to drive the bot.

Create a process for making decisions.

Develop a way to clearly communicate with your team when to meet, what kind of robot is being built and what decisions have been made.

Best of luck.
Build Mentor Dave