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1. I wish that they would allow us to take our robot home after competition, as they did in 2001 (Coopertition FIRST) and then ship by the ship date (Tuesday after a competition) to the next venue.
Regardless, I wish they would announce whatever "repairs and new stuff" rule right from the beginning and stick to it.
2. I would like to have another coach/mentor position. In 2001 at Regionals, we used this position primarily to give another high school student the opportunity to get out on the playing field and get into the competition atmosphere before driving/playing in a subsequent match.
At Nationals, our second coach was the person who had all the scouting and partner capabilities info. We only had a couple of minutes to plan strategy. Two people (one to discuss, the other to filter the info) were invaluable.
3. They should continue to post the alliance pairings at the beginning of the competition. This adds another dimension to the game (discussing strategy with future partners). Those of us who weren't actively repairing damage had a ball working on strategy with other teams.
4. If Small parts is used again, ban the use of the "tools" section for use on the robot. Although it was very innovative, the use of file cards and tape measures seems to be at the edge of what is acceptable. What's next, using a butane torch or a melting pot?
5. Put an overall dollar limit on the robot. This would include everything purchased external to the kit. This would mean setting a standard price for raw materials (e.g. .25" aluminum).
6. Instead of unlimited gears, sprockets, bearings, allow the use of anything in the Stock Drive Products or Boston Gear catalogs. Put a dollar amount limit.
7. Zone Zeal reached (and maybe exceeded) the safe limit of "violence" that FIRST (with its message of gracious professionalism) can tolerate. If there is going to be more pushing, shoving, and grabbing than in the past, the referees -must- enforce the actual rules when a team goes over the top.
The actual rules of engagement must be more precise, as well. Although we, as competitors, can police ourselves, different interpretations of loosely worded rules lead to hard feelings.
That's all for now,
Andrew, Team 356
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