I'm glad this issue over the alliance selections has been clarified. I don't believe there was any foul play last Saturday; it was an excellent strategy. I'm grateful that there were no "super-alliances" this year. It was probably the best and most competitive regional I've seen as a student in FIRST.
Now, I'd like to thank and congratulate a few teams.
33- First of all, congrats to Jim for winning the regional Woodie Flowers Award. I was surprised that you hadn't won it earlier, and I wouldn't be shocked in the slightest to see you win the national Woodie Flowers award. Anyway, thank you very much for picking us. We had fun being your alliance partner, and if it weren't for some technical problems, I really think we could have challenged the #1 alliance for a spot in the finals. This is the second time in three years that we have had the privilege of being your alliance partner. You guys are an awesome team and I wish the best of luck to you in Atlanta!
107- Thank you for being an awesome alliance partner. You and 33 were great in the quarterfinals, hurdling like crazy while we played defense. It was unfortunate to lose the way we did, but it was a great time all the same. I hope to see you soon in Atlanta.
67, 503, 326- Congrats to the winners of one of the toughest regionals in all of FIRST. Your hybrid mode impressed me and your teamwork was flawless. For 67 and 503, this is another victory in a long list of accomplishments. For 326, I applaud your AWESOME robot. Your hurdler impressed me all weekend! Good luck to all three of you at the Championship!
27- Your robot is perhaps the most innovative machine I've seen all year. Your hurdler was incredible and I was as surprised as anyone when you lost in the semifinals. You will be a force to be reckoned with Atlanta; I just hope we don't have to come up against you like we did two years ago.
217- One of my favorite teams to watch all weekend. Your robot is incredibly simple, and yet so effective. Your drive team is incredible too. It was unfortunate that you were unable to win your third straight regional, but don't lose too much sleep over it; you'll come out strong in Atlanta. Also, I want to thank you for your respect and humility toward our drive team. I wish you nothing but the best in Atlanta!
Phew! Two weeks off, then the real competition begins. Hope to see you all there!
