[Rob]

When I read through this thread it strikes me that this is not about an individual person upset about an individual team. To me this is more about something that is a part of the culture fo FIRST - people being upset about the disparity between "Have not" teams and "Have lots" teams.

Every year "Have lots" teams dominate the awards and eliminations and "Have not" teams may sneak in an award or finals appearance here and there.

There are tons of threads on CD on the topics of mentor vs. student built, well funded vs. poorly funded, collaboration and other topics that surround this issue. In my mind this is a part of the culture of FIRST that teams on both sides of the coin have to accept and make the most of.

I am certain that there will never be true parity in FIRST, but I have never seen an indication that competitive parity is a goal of the organization. FIRST is around to inspire students by linking them up with mentors, role models and heroes from the fields of science and technology (and others!)

I would suggest that if you see yourself as a "Have not" and are feeling frustrated about it that you try and work with some people from the "Have lots" teams. I am sure you will find that they are open to helping and that they have quite a bit to share that can start you on the path to improving yourself and your team. These superstar teams are inspirational and most are ready to share what got them to where they are.

Rob