[Tom Bottiglieri]

I believe at least one regional is necessary.

As stated before, there is something about the time constraint and scope of the project we work on that really puts engineering into perspective for the students.

Also, the official events are always run very well, and teams always feel like there are MUCH higher powers at work while they compete.

If a team wants to ditch another regional in lieu of more off-seasons, I guess that's a valid choice for them to make. I believe 1519 does something like this.

I, for one, will continue to compete in as many official competitions as possible.