[archiver]

Posted by Mike Aubry at 03/05/2001 11:36 PM EST


Engineer on team #47, Chiefs, from Pontiac Central and Delphi .


In Reply to: impressive balance... but a tactical error
Posted by JVN on 03/05/2001 12:22 AM EST:




: Chaos, you got ripped off on that one
The most difficult part of this years competition seems to be second guessing the alliance strategic plan when it doesn't quite work out the way it was planned. The team you are speaking about is my team - team 47. The difficult part that everyone (including me) is having this year, revolves around trying to figure out why teams are doing what they are doing. As an audience participant everyone can sit back and judge after the results are known. But, I have learned that it is better to attempt to understand the logic in the attempted failure, before slinging harsh words upon the team that appears to have messed up. You see, the thing is - no one in the audience is priviledged to know before hand, just what the strategy is. We all have to watch as it unfolds, and then we get to judge the stupidity or brilliance with the advantage of seeing the results. Wouldn't it be great if everyone could first try out the strategy to see if the tasks, and timing are feasible, before we run the match! Hindsight is 20/20. This year, I suggest (and am trying very hard to do this myself) that second guessing or backseat driving be absolved - for if it isn't - I predict that it will be the downfall of the FIRST spirit and eventually ruin what over the years has led to wonderful relationships and friendships. This year especially, will try the patience and understanding of many teams - as many teams will fail trying to do what many are sure is a stupid thing, thus ruining the chances of the other 3(or 4) teams in the alliance. Is 6 years of building relationships and friendships really worthy of the second guessing and backstabbing that is now occuring? A piece of advice for ALL the teams that have yet to compeat in a regional, Most teams at first, don't really know what they are capable of when working in a team, and many will find it difficult to adapt. Some will succeed, some will fail! Therefore, Be as compassionate to those that fail, as you are ecstatic with those that succeed. Show some class, be kind - this is the humane part that gracious professionalism can't even be compared to because it's about people and feelings. Hugs of condolance and words of encouragement go alot farther than hurtful accusations and mean spirited actions. Teams that fail when attempting to score high scores, don't fail because they intended too - try and remember that. And the funny part is, when they succeed no one questions the strategy, seems strange to me. This game is all about RISK and REWARD, those that dare to "Go for it", should be prepared for the darts and arrows? - I suggest NOT, if the strategy was previously agreed to by the teams representatives while planning it out. Previous posting, and alot of verbal messages of complete and utter sorrow has already been expressed so I won't go further than that - Thanks, Aztecs and Chaos, and the other alliance partners for giving us the opportunity. It will not be forgotten.