Entry Fee Increase---hurting teams

[Tonya Scott 476]

I am interested in finding out how many other teams are almost destroyed by FIRST's latest price increase?

I understand that many components in our kits, competition etc are very expensive. But at this rate, team numbers are going to decrease, as well as rookie team recruitment.

There are several options that could solve these problems. Eliminating most of the kit components (many things end up in trash) If teams had vouchers for their motors, and other necessary components, and if kit inventory lists were released early, teams could gather up the things they want to use--this would require kits to be sent to rookies only maybe. Veteran teams will have vouchers to order the motors they choose to use.

The computers on the robot and control station could also be used for 2 seasons. This would reduce the costs by at least $1000 each year that it was reused. I know that this component is updated every few years, but why not reuse it at least 1 year.

There are many, many other creative ways to cut costs. We just have to be willing to explore these methods with an open mind.

I know that many teams are "super-funded" and a thousand dollars is no big deal. But for many teams, we are already stretched as far as we can go. Another thousand increase for 1st regional and then another thousand for championship ---that is a $2000 increase if a team wants to go to both events. That $1000-2000 dollars was the money for our metal and parts for robot, and some travel money. This is a HUGE problem for many teams now. I would really like other teams that are hurting to respond---without feedback, no one will ever think this is a problem.

What I can see happening is that the "super-funded" teams will be the primary participants at the championship and at a 2nd regional.

The rest of the "budget--challenged" teams will be doing good to attend 1 regional.

I am not trying to offend the "super-funded" teams--I think that is GREAT that you are able to do so many wonderful things, and pave the way as really good examples. So please don't take it that way. I am simply trying to be a voice for teams that are really struggling right now---it seems that maybe no one has heard our pleas for lower fees. My own team is struggling---and I know of many others. Recruiting new teams is almost impossible now---the price tag is just too high for teams that don't have a corporate sponsor with deep pockets.

I have already noticed that enrollment numbers are REALLY low in many regionals. Some have 10 or less teams signed up. I predict that there will be many regionals with less than 25 teams. Another point is that teams may sign up, but until they send in their payment---it isn't a sure thing.

My message to FIRST----you may have priced yourself out of business. This price increase will not only cost many veteran team to quit, or consolidate with nearby teams, but rookie growth will also suffer. I hope that this price increase will be reconsidered soon.