[Paul Copioli]

There were 280 spots this year (7 events with 40 teams per event) as we were planning on having 140 teams. We only had 132 teams, which meant that there were only 264 spots taken. FiM opened up a third event to Michigan teams for an additional cost of $500. Teams all knew in advance that only their first two events counted.

With only 16 spots available there is no way the third event can count. FiM knew this and teams knew this. While unfortunate for team 216, this rule is in place for 85% of the teams, not just one team (the 116 teams that did not have the ability to play a third Michigan district). Taking the best out of three is a big advantage that just couldn't be allowed. I am sure FiM will take into consideration any suggestions for next year.

If there are a lot of people that think the third event should count, then maybe we should just allow everyone to play two and only two. I think there should be an option to play a third as long as it doesn't count and people don't complain about it not counting.

There were plenty of teams that qualified with their first two events, so needing a third to get the necessary points really holds no weight with me.

With that said, I would be very suprised if 216 doesn't get in as there will be more than 6 that just will not have the funds.