[jrukes]

It's great to see an impassioned response SUPPORTING FIRST amongst this log jam of concern over "The EPCOT Invitational". I would like to present my opinion, too.

I remember earlier this summer that some teams, great ones in fact, mentioned having some FIRSTers compete in Battlebots to show "them" how a real robot is made. While I don't think a FIRSTer actually went out that minute and built a BBot over the summer, there are several current and former FIRST teams that compete in BB.

I can understand how some are against BB because of the "violence". Obviously, one robot destroying another robot could be compared to modern day gladiators.

As with every high school team, the students must come first. Otherwise, you are frauding the sponsors to fund your hobby. You have to learn what your team needs.

Are the students mature, smart young adults that need an intellectual challenge?

Are they young students that need a strong hand to guide them?

Do they need to learn the details of machine design or is a boost to their self-esteem more important?

If you find the answers, then you must ask "am I capable of giving this to them?"

Whether your team competes in FIRST or Battlebots, your are providing an experience to the students and to the adults. Each event has its strengths and weaknesses, but neither should be weakened so the other may succeed.

If we learn anything from the tragedy, I hope that it is to accept difference.

-Jason