2011 Minnesota North Star Regional

[Jedward45]

I was present at the event and saw all three matches. I have this to say:

1. As we all know, the decision of the refs are final. Still, the behavior exhibited by the losing alliance, while understandable, was unprofessional and not in the spirit of First. After seeing the pointless arguing that occurred, I don't disagree with the ref's decision to stand firm with his decision.

2. With the #1 seed having 2 of its 3 teams pre-qualified for nationals, I feel a majority would be content with the results of the regional. (7 robots go to nationals rather than 5) In fact, I think this regional highlighted a fatal flaw in the tournament system that limits the number of opportunities for teams to experience nationals.

3. I don't know why the red cards were assessed, and I don't know the specific rules on the situation in match #2. So I would like to know if anybody could clarify. That said, I feel the blue alliance did win match #3 fairly, so without a match #4, the red alliance cannot claim a stolen victory.

4. I'm a vikings fan. Anyone who saw the NFC championship game can agree arguing the penalties doesn't solve anything....

Those are my thoughts...