[EricH]

Originally Posted by Cory

But if that ref is a mentor for said team, they'd be needed by the team, and could not volunteer.

Says who? BeachBot mentors have volunteered at many regionals. Admitedly, they have done so as inspectors and safety officers. However, I know of a former 696 student who refereed at L.A. where 696 competed. I don't think that he was any easier on 696 than on any other team. I can't say that for all refs who have a team affiliation, however.