[David Brinza]

The no-saving-seats rule is a problem? Well, actually, it is just not enforced and that creates a problem for those who comply with the rule.

I'm sure all of the teams want to sit together - not only for team spirit, but also because it's easier to keep track of the whereabouts of the students. The current approach seems to be common practice (albeit against the rules): a few people can stake out a large number of seats. Is is right for 4-6 people to claim 40 seats? Is that consistent with "gracious professionalism"?

I'm suggesting that FIRST devise a way to help ensure teams of block seating at their division fields (and around Einstein) by some predetermined method. This would reduce or eliminate some of the less than pleasant interactions that occur (I've seen it) when teams try to get seated after opening ceremonies. Even better, it will allow all team members to view the opening ceremonies.

Example: When a team registers for the championship event, the team provides a REASONABLE estimate of the number of attendees. After the last regional, when the divisions are set, FIRST designates blocks of seats on a team-by-team basis. FIRST should "pad" the number of seats allocated for each team (10-20%) to allow for unexpected guests, folks who want to see various teams compete in other divisions, etc. So, should the blocks of seats for teams be selected randomly? Or, should FIRST use some algorithm (perhaps not unlike the points method used as championship criteria in past years) to select seating? Should the seating change on Friday and Saturday (so you're not stuck in seats far from the field on both competition days)?

Any better ideas out there?