We on Team 1097 make it a point to refer to ourselves as a TEAM, so at least in our own minds we are classified differently from an average recreational school club, which is basically what our school saw us as until our recent performance at Sacramento.

There wasn't much enthusiasm about robotics during our rookie year, especially because our school takes so much pride in its reputation for athletics. It seems like most schools want to see solid results, either in placement or awards, before they'll consider more support for a FIRST team, but judging from previous posts, I guess even solid veteran teams have a hard time getting recognition.

It's quite surprising how narrow-minded some people can be, but I've come to believe that changing stubborn minds and generating enthusiasm for your team is part of the FIRST experience.