This was an incredible event!
I want to echo a few things:
To our good friends - 1111 The PowerHawks - you were amazing hosts! The event couldn't have been run any better! Hopefully the next time we get to pick you for real!
To the amazing volunteers - Steve and all the referees, the FTAs, the Judges, Queuers, Announcers, Field Resetters, and everyone who put on a volunteer shirt from all of the teams! Shoot outs to Mike (you are a great MC!), Jenny (our RoboMom!), Anne, Bill, Momma-Serge, Zara, and all the ones I know am missing ... You Rock!!!
To all the teams that battled hard - you all built amazing robots in 6 weeks, and are inspiring an entire generation to pursue STEM careers. Remember why we do this!
To 888, 623, and 1389 - those were some amazing matches! Some of the best matches we have played all year!
To 1137, 686, and 4067 - you guys were great all weekend! 1137 Rocket Sauce - it was fun battling for #1 with you all weekend! Maybe next time we can be on the same side of the glass!
To our amazing alliance - 1629 and 3941. It was a dream come true to create an alliance that was not only with 2 of the best teams in Maryland (robot-wise), but also in terms of why we do this! You are both such great examples and models for all teams!
* 3941 - I can honestly say, as alliance selection was happening, I kept watching my list and being surprised you hadn't fallen off my pick list. So was absolutely thrilled to get such an amazing team! You guys were perfect! Our only loss, due to mechanical issues on our robot, you kept us in that match, and almost pulled out the win!
* 1629 - GaCo! You aren't just friends. You're family! We have shared DNA! You inspire us! You deserved the District CA. You deserve the District Championship CA. You will get the Championship CA!
To my team - The RoboBees - this has been a crazy year, the loss of one facility caused you all to work even harder to get a new facility. You designed and built an amazing robot in the midst of the turmoil and chaos! How many teams can build a great robot when you don't even have a home until two weeks into the build season! I am so incredibly proud of all of you!
See you all in two weeks at the Chesapeake District Championships!
Go Bees!
Steve