The point system has problems, such as the mentioned frequent flyer problem. I like the idea of accumulating points. I also think that the point system should be rewarding to teams winning awards other than the chairman's and regional champs. Yes, it is good to have the best teams at the champ event; however the regional events aren't providing the true meaning, spirit, and purpose of FIRST the way the championship event does - therefore I think more teams, especially rookie teams, need to go to the national event. And I don't mean there should be 50% rookies or something outrageous. I also understand the bias I seem to be under, however I was on Team 71 before 1020 and I don't feel like 1020 was cheated last year.
The even/odd system has a great advantage. It's like the old days when everyone could go except it's half of everyone. How long will this be enough though? 1000 teams and I read, possibly 210 spots?
The inclusion of the inaugural teams jumped off the page at me when I read it. "Why?" I thought. I can understand the want to keep them in the event and actually after thinking about it, I hope you do. They are the ones that I can go to at the event and chat with about the old days when everything was on tether!
They deserve that spot for getting things started and the can offer a lot to the community from their experience.
An idea occured to me from professional sports: What if there were two major events followed by a competition between the winners? I shuddered at the thought and I hope you do too. If someone has already thought of this on your end, Dave, no offense to them, but please keep searching for other ideas and don't split up the one event that we all love!
Good luck to all of you guys at FIRST who are trying to figure this one out. Don't lose too much sleep over it!