From a Newton Volunteer

[robobandmom]

I'm just a FIRST fan/sponsor this year since my kids that were in FRC have moved on and my mentor husband has had to take a break from FIRST due to work requirements.

I was at a regional event this year and saw a mentor coach who appeared very mad, and was yelling/shouting and actually banging on the driver's station "glass" during a match. I was shocked and saddened.

I have attended 12 official FIRST events in the last few years and probably 6 off season events, and have NEVER seen anything like it. The team we were a part of was pretty set on student coaches; the mentors didn't want to take a drive team spot away from a kid that had poured his/her heart and soul into the team. That decision served this team well, but I realize each team is free to choose what works for them.

I do not know the circumstances behind this mentor/coach's actions, but unless he was fearful for someone's safety, (which didn't appear to be the case,) shouting and banging on the driver's station glass should get you removed from the event, and maybe even from FIRST all together.