What's your favorite part of build season?

[DampRobot]

Prototyping, detailed design, milling, and iteration. Wait, isn't that like pretty much all of build season?

[Joseph Smith]

Originally Posted by Whippet

Wait, yours actually do stuff?!?

Somehow, it always ends up doing things. I can't for the life of me figure out how though.

[Chadfrom308]

Originally Posted by sergioCorral842

Finally getting the chance to test code.

Wait you guys do that in build season?!?!? More like first match for us

[Squeakypig]

The first time auton runs successfully. Best feeling ever. (even if it is a fluke)

ESPECIALLY when you don't have to say "Why is it going backwards?" after the first attempt.

[nlknauss]

Detailing and integrating systems, so basically seeing it all come together.

Spending time with the team is up there too!

Nate

[Justin Montois]

The first week and the last week.

[Alan Anderson]

It's hard to choose. I'll say Saturday lunch, with late nights on Chief Delphi as a close second.

[RamZ]

Originally Posted by Chadfrom308

Wait you guys do that in build season?!?!? More like first match for us

Two words: Practice bot.

[sergioCorral842]

Originally Posted by RamZ

Two words: Practice bot.

Correct Answer.

[Michael Hill]

Though technically not part of build season, it's the day after bag day.

[waialua359]

Originally Posted by Justin Montois

The first week and the last week.

Same for me except 2000, 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2013 for the last week part.

[Kevin Ray]

My favorite part is when you've found that "Ah-ha" moment that defines your particular robot. It's the time during either modeling, prototyping or modifications to a semifinal iteration when you KNOW that you've got what you think will be competitive. It becomes the moment when I feel that I can start sleeping well at night without worrying unnecessarily.

[Koko Ed]

The beginning. It's like Christmas.

[Gregor]

Competition season.

[wasayanwer97]

This is like choosing the best song on your favorite album... I love build as a whole.

Highlight moments:

• KICKOFF!!!! And the horrible feeling of disappointment when it's not a water game. I still remember how during 2013 kickoff in San Jose, half the room was like "WOAAAAHHH" when the game was unveiled.
• That moment where you realize your strategy and robot design and get to it.
• When the first prototype works.
• The first time you test your drivetrain.
• All the laughable moments with your team. From the stupid jokes to the random things sleep depived teammates do.
• Competition. Nothing beats being on the field, adrenaline pumping and all as you're about to start a match. As a coach, I have yet to find a place and time so energized and chaotic yet focused and calm at the same time. The feeling is indescribable.