I don't see that as sleezy simply because the purpose of the chairman's award is to motivate teams to help each other out and spread the message of FIRST. However, I share your feelings. 1020 had great mentorships last year which involved 447 giving us use of their field, engineering tips, fund raising tips, etc. We almost got a bus together with them to go down to St. Louis. This year I have met with a local teacher looking to start a team. He has already stopped by and made use of our press for the independent robot projects his students are working on.
I could see how phone conversations could be mentorship. However, I agree that there should be some agreement in them saying they were your mentor. On the flip side, I also have witnesses a problem where teams agree to mentor/be mentored without any mentorship taking place for the same purpose - to beef up that chairman's submission. I think that's an even worse situation.
I don't think this is a situation we want FIRST to attempt to intervene. Any policy or procedure on mentorship would probably just discourage teams from trying to actually mentor. I believe the solution to this problem lies in the wisdom of the individuals involved in each situation. Don't be afraid to approach them and ask them about it. Be polite and remember gracious professionalism. Gradcious professionalism does not say that you can't confront someone
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