[Chris Fultz]

Some basics for you

there are four divisons of randomly grouped teams, based on team number. the mix provides a similar level of experience levels in each division. the only difference between the divisions is their name - there is not one that is intentionally better than another.

in the dome, there are 5 fields. the four division fields and einstein.

each division will have about 70 - 75 teams, and you only play teams in your division, unless you get to einstein. you will probably have practice time on thursday, and then about 7 matches friday day and saturday morning. Then, the top 8 select partners, and there is an elimination tourney for each division, with division winners. the divison winners, with one alternate backup, then play in 2 2 team brackets to determine the world champs. these matches are on einstein.

in the pits, teams are arranged by division, and there are two practices fields, two divisions share each one. There are large video screens in the pits so you can watch the action on the field and see rankings.

there is no audio queing - you have to pay attention to match times and the video screens.

it is about a 10 minute walk with the robot to from the pits to the field. make sure you have a cart. only the drive team can go on the robot path, everyone else goes a different way from the pits to the fields.

there are also presentations from FIRST teams and mentors, Autodesk, lus companies and colleges there with materials on display.

and, the hall of fame, with previous years championship Chairmans Award winners and some awesome displays about their teams and their programs.

opening ceremony is Friday morning, awards are mixed in with the final tourney matches on Einstein. There are no awards or closing program on Friday night.

saturday after awards is the closing finale.

hopefully this helps!

It is an awesome time - have fun!