[Andy A.]

Driving can be a huge stress, as has been explained above.

Despite the stress, I would give anything to be back behind the driver station with an old flightstick in my hand. It's cool being a coach, but knowing that I'll never drive in FIRST again still bugs me. I wish there was a collage league in FIRST, if only so I could drive again. Maybe an off season dedicated to letting all us washed up drivers back in saddle.

Back on point, I loved the stress. It kept me focused and from slacking off. I consider some of my best work as a student in FIRST being what I accomplished as a driver. I'm a mediocre machinist and electrician, but I think I made a heck of a driver (forgive the lack of modesty). It also helped that the rest of my drive team were absolute pros, and I knew I had the best pit crew in FIRST ready to fix anything I broke (happened frequently). Having a fast, nimble and showy 'bot (the popcorn popper from '02) made it all the more fun.

The stress can weigh on you, but it can also keep you focused and working at your max. The trick is directing that stress in to a productive outlet and not letting it just chew at you. Instead of thinking that everyone is going to see you screw up royally in the next match, you have to convince your self that everyone is going to see you win the match even when both your allies get flipped and half your robot stops working.

-Andy A.