Wisconsin Regional 2016

[Sunshine]

Actually yes. We have been to IRI and my thoughts were exactly what I write here. Wasn't impressed with the facilities at all.

If I'm inviting a potential sponsor for my team to an event or the regional planning team invites someone with deep pockets to an event; you can't tell me that they'd be more impressed with a gym than an arena.

And there is just something special for our students to be compete on/in a professional sports facility.

For us, when we seek sponsorship or district support, explaining that we are competing with teams from several states and different countries has merit and influence. That goes away for the most part with districts.

Again, those on the fence about going to districts should search previous threads here on CD. You'll discover that feelings are closely split by those who are in districts. Don't take Eric's or my word for it. Do your homework and be knowledgable about the pros and cons.

I think it's enevitable that the district model becomes the norm. But it doesn't mean I and others will like it or endorse it. Talking with district planning folks I get the opinion that those who agree with me are vacating their roles for the most part. And those sticking around are in favor of districts. I'm not saying their involvement or lack of is dictated by this possible decision. But to me, I think there will be a majority on that committee in favor. Let your thoughts be known to that committee and the EAB if you have a strong opinion.

Eric, it's hard for me to accept your argument that 857 was only successful because of the change to districts. We both know team leadership, positive direction and focus plays into team success.

[Ginger Power]

Originally Posted by Sunshine

And there is just something special for our students to be compete on/in a professional sports facility.

This is exactly my argument for districts. If FIRST is trying to be a varsity sport for the mind, why not emulate successful varsity sports? Every varsity sport that I know of competes in high schools. Makes sense. The good teams earn their way to the regional and state championships. Those championship events are hosted in big arenas. As a little kid it was my dream to play varsity football on the floor of the Metrodome. If I automatically qualified to play at the Metrodome, it wouldn't have been special, or something to aspire to. Same goes for Regionals/Districts. If I automatically qualify to play on a grand stage it's not that special (Regionals). If I earn my way there through perseverance and hard work, it's truly special and something that I'll remember as a great achievement (Districts).

Hosting events in high school gyms also makes FRC more accessible for the public. Do you think Joe Shmoe from my hometown is more likely to drive 60-100 miles to watch my team in a glorious stadium, or drive 3-5 miles to my high school gym? If Joe Shmoe sees what's going in his hometown, and realizes how special FRC is, maybe he'll decide to get involved. Maybe he owns Company XYZ and decides to sponsor FRC teams in the future. Maybe Joe wants to mentor next year, or show his friends. Certainly none of this happens if we don't play in a high school gym. It definitely doesn't happen if we're going to some far away stadium and Joe has no idea we even exist.