[Al Skierkiewicz]

There are really two ideas going here. I would like to address one of them, which teams go to nationals. It is my firm conviction that all teams should go to nationals if they want. Having been an adult advisor for six years, I have seen firsthand the education students receive when exposed to FIRST. Students (and adults) learn from veteran and rookie teams alike. They learn from high scoring teams and low scoring teams. But above all, students learn best when they have fun. Regionals are fun to be sure, but to be able to say you played at the Nationals and to be in that environment is big fun for all involved. I personally feel that students get the most from this program when they get to play. It is for that reason that we help other teams get their robots working when needed. If you came to play we are bound to help you (gracious professionalism)do just that.
I know the struggle FIRST has had on growing the program and still getting teams into the nationals. I think this new method will work for all involved.
Good Luck All