[Chris Hibner]

I'm really sorry this happened. I know while I was there I didn't come to your team and say 'hi'. The biggest reason was that I was so busy for the vast majority of the event. That being said, I DEFINITELY admired your team throughout the event - your team appeared to have a lot of spirit and a great bunch of people.

I guess the majority of the teams that attend the IRI are a fairly close-knit group of teams that have a lot of history together and there are a lot of friendships within the teams. It can be hard to break into any group like this. it's like being the new kid at a new school - all of the friendships have already been formed so you have to somehow break into the group that's already formed, and that's not always easy. It's not that the people in this area are not friendly. I think it's more that the people got busy catching up on old times and then the time ran out before they had time to branch out. I think I'll make a better effort next year to try and welcome the new teams a little better.

I really hope your experience doesn't sour you on the IRI in the future. I remember that team 25 had a similar experience a couple of years ago. I'm glad that they came back this year - it seems that they had a good time this time around.

I really hope to see you guys back next year. Your robot was great, your team appeared to work very well together, and you guys had a lot of spirit. Heck, one of your guys was the high bid on the signed DSK shirt in the silent auction - I HAVE TO love you guys for that. Please come back and we'll be sure to show you a better time.