Thanks for mentioning the MARS robot fondly named "Ball-istic".
We were really proud of our unique design and thrilled with how robust it was (although in this tough field we did not receive any FIRST awards).
Here's a few of my personal favorites (definitely biased from attended events):
Favorite Rookie Team - 1902
Fun group; efficient, excellent robot;memorable name and best new cheer
Wildest wheels - Team 357
Loved their jester drive and crazy wheels that allowed their robot to drive forwards, backwards and sideways
Amazing Ball Pick-Up - 86
Their rapid pick-up (not to mention insanely fast shooter) was beautiful to watch
Unique Defensive Design - 710
Loved the way they had pop-out defensive shields for blocking