2013 BAE Systems Granite State Regional

[610.Dad]

As a (very proud) Team 610 Parent who was fortunate enough to have been allowed to accompany his son's team to what for me was my very first robotics event, I thought I would share my perspective. Perhaps some other teams' members may share it with their parents in the hope of encouraging more parental involvement in this amazing program.

In no particular order, here are my "first" impressions:

1. Even though everybody received the same instructions for the same event, there was a surprising diversity of robot construction, abilities, and capabilities. I had imagined (before the event) that robots designed to do the same tasks, would probably all look and act the same way. Wrong!

2. The entire concept of "coopetition" where competition is seamlessly knitted together with collaboration is the most striking feature. This is unique to this generation, and quite foreign to my own experience and upbringing. These young men and women had no apparent issues with providing willing and cheerful assistance to other teams, against whom they were competing. Also, collaboration had no discernible effect on the natural and healthy competitive desire to win. Who would have thought such a thing was possible? I strongly suspect that this new attitude and approach will yield significant benefits for these young people in their future studies and professional lives.

3. Many of these kids are smarter than we are. There - I said it.

4. Shooting robots may score more points, but climbers are more fun to watch!

5. The students really do run things - they chair the meetings, build and design the robots and call the shots. Although mentors and teachers could jump in and solve the problems and fix the robots - they don't. They seem to understand that they are building young men and women - not robots. I saw no evidence of adults ruining things for the kids, which is something we do regrettably hear about in other competitive activities. I feel pretty sure that this type of bad behaviour would not be tolerated in the First culture.

6. The adult volunteers who run and judge the event seem to share the same value system as the students who build and drive the robots. They were consistently impartial, fair and helpful. Thanks.

I am deeply grateful to Team 610's members, mentors and teachers for their "graceful professionalism" and charity in allowing me to become involved in what has been a very positive life experience for my son. From concept to execution, First is one of the very best organizations ever to be made available in our schools, and is worthy of all the support a parent could give. Congratulations and thanks to all those whose efforts over the years have made this incredible opportunity possible!

I strongly encourage more parents to become involved and allow their sons and daughters to let them "show you how it's done".