[JaneYoung]

I've suggested to James that he start a thread independent of the NI off season thread. Perhaps this way, people will express thoughts and opinions a little more freely.

Because of the size of Texas, travel is involved for the regionals and for any potential off season other than for the teams that can participate locally. Travel is expensive, especially if it is not planned in advance and built into the budget for new off seasons. There has to be an understanding of the value and importance that off seasons bring to the teams that compete in the regular competition season. There also has to be an understanding that the local teams will support the off season by helping with the planning and implementation.

Regions and areas that don't have, and/or have not had an off season, may not have that basic understanding or appreciation and they have to learn that. It's one thing to hear each year that we need to have an off season in Texas and it's another thing to follow all the way through with that desire/suggestion.

Many teams take a break during the summer months. There are changes in the leadership, both students and mentors. It is difficult to access the robot and the shops if they are located in the schools that are closed. And money can be tight, esp. when it is not budgeted. These things can impact a community of teams that are trying to get an off season off the ground, esp. in a state the size of Texas.

All this said, if you do get some interest generated locally, it would be a good start, even at a scrimmage level.
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I wish you all the best in this effort and will help you in any way I can, James.

Jane