Thread: Starting a Mostly student run FRC team
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Unread 27-03-2009, 11:00
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FRC #2554 (WarHawks)
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Re: Starting a Mostly student run FRC team
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jmasta View Post
Ok, so my coach of the passed 3 FRC seasons is deciding he doesnt want to compete in next years FRC, but me and a couple of veterans are thinking that we should attempt to start our own team, One of our veterans graduates this year and could handle the Coaching stuff, but how hard do you think it would be to start an FRC team which is basically, entirely student run?
Are you based out of a public school? If so, is your coach a teacher/club adviser? If so, one problem I see with a completely student-run team is the financial aspect. Usually, Board of Education's establish their own accounts for clubs that are only accessible by a teacher/club adviser. Also, does your team use your school's 401(c)3 tax ID number to get donations/sponsorships? If so, I do not know how liberal your school board will be in allowing you to continue use of their number.

If you are based in a school, is there any way you can find another teacher? Have you considered approaching your school's administration (Principal, Vice Principal, etc.)? What about the Student Activities Director (the person who oversees all clubs)?

If you are not based out of a school, like mentioned before, try to find a mentor from one of your sponsors.

Parents are usually a great source for supervision (it's inherent in their nature). If parents of team members really believe in the team, and in FIRST, I'm sure they wouldnt mind coming together and filling in for an absent coach.

Lastly, try professional organizations in your area. I know that the ASME's website has a specific link where you can inquire for volunteers for a FIRST team.
While you are on that track, try contacting your local branch of the IEEE(which has a Robotics and Automation Chapter), AIAA, NSPE, etc.

Lastly, if you still have a void in the coach's position, consider creating a stipend/ an incentive for a coach. I'm not an accountant, so I don't know the specifics, but in some states volunteers can get reimbursed for gas and other things. That maybe a way to bring in volunteers.

Anyways, hope I helped, good luck!

-Neel
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