[indieFan]

I'm surprised FIRST didn't use scales in combination with sensors to determine when a crossing was completed or not. Yes, it would add to the cost of the field and greatly complicate the field staff's lives during set-up and maintenance, but it would help resolve some of these issues.

There have been years when the method of scoring has switched (from mechanical to human, anyone know if it went the other way?) due to issues.

Can any of the people at the events tell us how many Refs are watching the field? Is one Ref responsible for watching all 5 defenses on a side? If so, would it be plausible to get a two more Refs for future events to split the load up? (Yes, I realize it's difficult to get enough volunteers in the first place.)