[Jason Morrella]

I haven't really done the detailed prediction thing in the past, but since there are a number of new twists in FRC this year I'll give it a go:

1. I predict that the new surface or rules will NOT in any large way result in "leveling the playing field" or giving any sort of advantage to newer teams over veterans as some have predicted. I think the veteran teams who consistently perform at a top level will do so again, proving that their structure, organization, design process and experience are the main ingredients for their success. As usual, I also expect many newer teams to take big steps to the next level as they build on their experience.

2. I predict that this season will show that three groups of teams will have a huge advantage over the rest of the field: teams that were part of the CRio Beta test, teams in the different FIRST in Michigan model and teams that have the resources/funds to build a full 2nd practice robot and practice field.

2a. I predict that at least 5 of the 6 final teams on Einstein in Atlanta will have been in those groups.

3. I predict that if it is finally shown beyond any doubt that the teams which have more time to work on their robots at home, teams that got to pay less to play and the teams that have the resources to build practice robots have a huge competitive advantage over everyone else, that it will force FIRST to get rid of the 6 week build schedule and required robot shipping to events. Yes, I'm saying teams will get to keep their robots, will get to keep working on them and will get to bring them to each event themselves. Those are not the only reasons I think this change will be made - other factors that will result in this major change will be financial savings to FIRST and how much easier/simpler many aspects would be (so many rule debates are based on the shipping and fix it windows, issues like the passionate battery debate would disappear - freeing up time, energy and sanity for mentors, students and the GDC members).

3a. This would also save FedEx money overall, so I'm sure FIRST and FedEx will still ensure donated shipping to/from events for teams not within driving distance of a regional.

I know, prediction 3 is a big one, but especially in economic times like these, there are just way too many resources (money) going into shipping and the need to build practice robots. Those funds could be much better spent on school materials and equipment, travel or just reduced fundraising stress if practice robots were no longer needed and shipping expenses were removed.

4. I predict the game will end up being liked (but a couple of the rules will be very disliked) and the playoffs at all events and the Championship will be very entertaining as usual.

5. I predict/hope everyone has a great season and looks back proudly on all their hard work, time, dedication, teamwork and accomplishments (which has nothing to do with how their robot finishes at an event).