http://www.flickr.com/gp/20629362@N05/C9J3FV
Here is a link to the Kettering Rookie Event pictures. You have to understand that Kettering is one of the top universities in the world for engineering. It is in a small setting but one of the most unique schools you will ever see. Look it up in the Princeton Review or at Time Magazine ranking of top colleges in the US. Kettering is always at the top. I have sat on the committee their for the past 8 years, they don't do things 1/2 way or even 99% of the way. It is the best. We bring in bleachers, we have pits, we have the loud music we have the awards etc. We even had the officals from FIRST there were blown away. Yes we had a catered reception, we just didnt throw pizza at people unless that is what you wanted!!!

Kettering is willing to give tours at any time. They have a fuel cell development program that they love to show off. Including if somebody wanted to take a ride in a fuel cell car, they will take you. It is the same field you play on, the field we used had been at the Midwest the week before.
Here in Michigan we pride ourselves on helping each other including and esp. the rookies. We look after each other like you wouldn't believe. We hold phone sessions with them on a weekly basis during build. If a team has an issue we make sure we find somebody nearby to aid them. Of course this doesn't work so well in the UP but we as veterans make ourselves available either through email or phone to them.
Take a look at the Championship. What state sticks out? Michigan! It seems every year or close to it, the Champion comes from here. We look at not just the issue in front of us, but look for ways to make it better.
I'm I convinced this is the way to go? I'm not sure, but I am willing to give it a shot before I shoot it down. I do think there will be teams who hate it and others who will love it and embrace it.
Isn't this what engineering is all about? Design it and see if you can improve it? I am going to be open minded about it!
