[TheMagicPenguin]

I didn't get to be a winner at world's but I was a finalist. I won in Pennsylvania for FTC. When I won at my state championship, I was rewarded with hugs and handshakes from mentors, volenetters, and peers alike. People who I barely knew from other teams where hugging me. It felt amazing, and I knew they appreciated what I had done for the state and my team.

I do belive that it is a little strange maybe even a little sexist (if that's even the right term) for all the females to be expected to hug an males expexted to just shake hands. Hugging and shaling hands is acceptable for both males and females.

I don't belive that hugging is inappropriate or unprofessional when celebrating on any level. Often after an event when I'm saying goodbye to volunteers at an event we share in a hug (males and females) and on occasions go out to dinner together.

FIRST is more then just a bunch of professionals. We are a family who care for one another and we build friendshis with adults and peers alike. A student can have an authority figure who they are friends with.

*edit* - word choice