[FRC Blog] We're Listening

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Originally Posted by Tom Bottiglieri

Sure, there is value in more teams going to the the championship event, but at what cost? Is paying to go to Detroit to see 400 boxes on wheels drive around in circles any more inspirational than driving to your DCMP to be a part of a higher caliber event?

You can make an argument that the teams we are trying to introduce to CMP wouldn't exist without the drive of a group of mentors, volunteers, and sponsors who have made things like easy to use control systems and kit drive bases possible. The people directly involved in building up FRC love FIRST because it's not only a way to positively impact and inspire students, but also a way to participate in a really cool competition. The drive to be the best has driven many of the innovations that has allowed FRC to be what it is today. If you take that goal away, what is there to strive for? Who wants to be a part of a competition where everyone is a winner?

I am just pointing out the facts. I don't agree with the decision to split worlds. Keeping it at district champs then worlds is a good solution that has its flaws as well but is better in my opinion than 2 "world" champs.
I also believe that splitting up champs and allowing more teams does not mean there will be a bunch of box on wheels at champs. They still have to be good to win a regional or get enough points in districts. There are 2 polor opposites at the moment, one where people are all about the competition and the other (FIRST) who believe that inspiration comes from participating and nothing more. There has to be some sort of middle ground.