[Mike Martus]

From our very first year we set standards that all students must strive to adhere to. In the early years (pre-handheld games - yes this did exist) you would often see other students playing cards in the corner, getting friendly (you know what I mean) and other activities we as leaders - mentors of our team felt were not in the interest of our team. We had rules regarding these behaviors - a Code of Standards.

Sorry but IMAGE is an important part of life, and image for your team is important.... Students..... you never know who is who at an event and who is watching you.

There was an incident told to me many years ago by some of my students - short version....
While on an elevator with several other students at a hotel and a adult the other students (not my team) started swearing, pushing and plain being rude. One of my students spoke up and asked them to respect their team and FIRST finishing it with "Cool it". The response was "Mind your own business". As they left the elevator the adult asked to speak to my students. He thanked them for their comments and praised them for doing and saying what is right.

Later in the competition when we were getting an award.... The lead judge smiled at them and said " I remember you".

True story.