Hay All,
Just a few comments. We know that seating was limited. Originally we were told we'd have less than what we did, but we pushed for more. We got it, but unfortunately not enough. That is one thing that will be worked on for next year.
On the other hand, to put a positive twist on it, don't you think it added to the huge energy and excitement that the place had? That place was slammin', people going nuts, yelling, screaming, and it got more intense as days went on, it's hard to get that kind of energy pumpin' with a HUGE arena with people spread out all over. While it may have been standing room only at times, people came together (closely!) and rocked the house!
We tried to get a larger venue (other campus facilities) but were not able for various reasons. It will be worked on next year, and if it has to be held in the Armory again, there can be some setup differences to allow more space or seating. We didn't have a ton of say in the setup, but definitely will look at it for next year. We planned for and expected high attendance but we got even more than that.
We did block off the first row for safety and to keep traffic moving. I personally think that no matter where the teams were sitting in the stands, they were pretty darn close to the action. I think it would have been tough to block off a section up front for playing teams with limited seating as it was. I think that would have caused overall less seating (those teams would already have another section they were sitting in, and then plus a reserved section taking up space they'd be moving back and forth to - spectators and others would have fewer places to sit). We actually had quite a few spectators from off the street that heard about it and attended with young children. I think that's awesome - spreading the word.
The only parking that had distance (1mile) was for the buses and trailers. We just could not accomodate them all in the lot behind the armory, but we did provide shuttle service for bus drivers. The parking garage across the street (1min walk) was reserved and free for everyone attending the event.
We also know the number one complaint was the bathroom facilities. We apologize for this, but we originally had better plans which fell through. This is high on the priority list for improving next year.
I was also shocked at the lack of time for alliance selections, but again that is out of our hands. Many issues are under FIRST control, but we can surely pass on the comments.
The campus tour times - already under discussion to work on better timing. Due to having the Union activities on Thursday evening (which all teams were informed about and confirmed to attend, and numerous announcements were made, but unfortunately few teams attended), we didn't have tours planned for that evening. We wanted to get to as many students as we were able and understand we were not able to accomodate drive teams better. We had good turn-outs for the tours despite that and think it worked out well... I am glad that we had these - I think it
showed what Purdue is all about without pushing it on people.
We actually did have a few lines run for electricity in the bleachers, on the west side a couple rows up. But I don't think it was publicized as it was a late addition during the event. How 'bout the wireless internet? Did that work out ok for people?
We appreciate all the postive and negative feedback so far. We strive to make it enjoyable for
everyone .

The people that helped put this together are all experienced FIRSTers who care about making it a good, fun event. This is why we take your feedback seriously.
Keep them coming, and as Chris said, you can PM him or I with comments.
btw, Dangerousdave - can you give more details about the problems with queuing and pits? That was in your negative list, but not sure exactly the problems?
I am thoroughly impressed with the action packed competition and game-play that went on... I myself was a skeptical about the action involved in this game, but it was fierce this past weekend.
Thanks!