[meaubry]

First, let me begin by saying - I understand why some think that the top 8 should be able to select anyone they want as a reward for being ranked in the top eight.
I'm not convinced that "random?" alliance pairing being used for the seeding matches is the true test of determing the top 8 robots though. And, I'm not sure that in large regionals with limited number of opportunities (matches), the top 8 can bubble up to the top without even them getting a little lucky in alliance pairings or opponent alliance pairing for that matter.
If the selection process is meant to allow a balance of teams in the elimination tourney, my answer to this question is different from if the selection process is meant to provide the higher seeds with a reward based on the seeding match results.
If the idea is to reward them - then why reverse the order the second time through (I know the answer is obvious - to balance the alliance strengths - but why take away the reward for being a higher seed if that is the rationale for allowing them to pick whomever thay want in the first place?)
If the idea is to try and balance the strength, then don't let them pick amoung the top 8 and don't reverse the order the second time around.
I think this becomes topic as a new thread every year the alliance process is changed. It seems like it will always be one of the things that cannot make everyone happy.
My wife suggested using a blind draw for the 3rd team, so even the teams that may never ever get a chance to play in the elims has at least an outside chance. She doesn't read the CD forums, so I call tell you that I didn't think it was such a good idea - but, I didn't tell her that.