This week, we have a question submitted by long-time reader
Kevin A. While I told him that it may be a few weeks before his question entered the rotation, I seem to have forgotten the other issues I wanted to address. So, until then, I think Kevin brings up an interesting subject that could result in some interesting debate.
FIRST works largely by keeping society's worst influences at bay by carefully architected rules and procedures, and deliberate efforts made toward providing tangible consequences for engaging in some of life's more unsavory conventional behaviors.
Kevin wonders. . .
Question of the Week 06-22-03: if FIRST were to begin to offer a monetary award to winning teams, would our coveted gracious professionalism withstand the change?
I'd like to interject and add a bit to that, if I may. What if money or sponsorship were guaranteed with the stipulation that such winning teams use that money and sponsorship to start a new team? What if the reward was not money, but machining equipment, or college scholarships, or ... dare I say ... automatic qualification to compete in certain events?
I understand that each of these circumstances may present different challenges. But, each may also create new, or different boundaries of what is acceptable behavior - for FIRST, for teams, and for mentors.
Edit: Please understand that this question isn't designed to ask if it's a good idea if such rewards are presented, but rather, it's to determine what may happen if they are presented, regardless of whether or not we'd ask for them. Thanks.