[Paul Copioli]

Our first match on Friday morning we didn't move one inch (not a robot problem, a person forgetting to do something problem). We were outscored 3-1, but due to penalties won 1-0. Our seeding score was 7 (1 + 2*3).

I will come out and say I do not like the system. I will say that I prefer wins and losses. However, I understand the reasoning for the 2x losing score and how it was implemented pre-2004 was much better than this year. The reason: in those years the losing alliance got their own penalized score so there was incentive to score for yourself.

The small tweak made this year from the pre-2004 years is breaking the system. More and more teams are figuring out that 6-0 is better for their situation. If the GDC intended this, then I guess they are getting what they wanted.

If this is an unintended consequence, then that is unfortunate for all of us participating.

With that said, I am not so concerned about people outside of FIRST understanding the ranking. Why? Because I have been telling people I know that are not part of FIRST to come to the event Saturday around 12:30pm since 2000. Like many sports, round robin play (aka qualification matches) are borrrring. Elimination round matches are exciting. This has worked for people I know for years as I have many repeat spectators at many of our local events.

When the season is over, I will give FIRST my opinion of the seeding system as I feel it is my responsibility; but if it stays this way for many seasons, my teams will live with it.

I can guarantee this: I will push like crazy to have IRI be based on wins & losses in qualifying!!!