[Lisa Perez]

On 573, we do various things to make the team what it is and to keep it that way.

First of all, we make sure that everyone who is on the team has something to do, and that that something meets the interests and the talents of the team members (even what may seem as the smallest of tasks can inspire people). As a team leader, I had to help select the different sub-groups for the season, and this was something that we definitely took into consideration.

As a team, we informally pair up the new members with people who have been on the team before, a mode of mentoring student-style. In doing this, we create relationships and a strong younger group which can carry the team through future years in FIRST.

We try to organize off-school events - we've gone laser tagging, and are setting up a soup kitchen trip. Also, we have tailgates every so often. It is integral to forge those strong friendships, and organizing off-school events certainly helps to do that.

Keep the atmosphere light. Seriousness is a necessity, especially when the team has only six weeks to build a functioning robot. However, if it gets too serious, people will find themselves not wanting to work anymore. Take food breaks, or work on corny but catchy cheers.

Some may disagree with me here, but if laziness is an issue, make the meetings mandatory for travel. People will come if they really want to be inspired, and after a while will find themselves wanting to get involved.

Hope this helps!