Quote:
Originally Posted by Tom Line
In addition, I think you'll find that every one of those highly successful teams have not just one, but several incredibly dedicated mentors that are experts in their field. There is simply no way a single mentor (no matter how dedicated), can provide enough expertise in every field that FIRST touches. The time requirement for a single mentor to even attempt to do that is staggering.
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I think this is a key that is often overlooked on many teams. If one or two mentors try to hold the team together and pull the load, it limits the team's potential. It is also, quite possibly, one of the factors of burnout. FRC provides opportunities for adults to learn to share duties and expertise and, if it is lacking, to recruit through sponsors and/or the community that the team is a part of. This can be a difficult concept for strong leaders to comprehend and implement, but it can be very beneficial to the team as a whole.
111 is a great team to think about regarding Team Of The Decade. They walk the talk and are open to helping others and sharing information, knowledge, and expertise. I've been the recipient of wisdom shared by a few of the mentors and alumni of 111 and it has strengthened the skills that I bring to the table of FIRST, as an individual, and as a member of another team.
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Excellence is contagious. ~ Andy Baker, President, AndyMark, Inc. and Woodie Flowers Award 2003
Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.
~ Helen Keller (1880-1968)