Let's not stop with CBS

[David Brinza]

How about this format for televising the Einstein matches (FIRST Final Four)?

Prior to the start of the semifinals, some FIRST background material (including Dave Lavery's game animation) would be shown to set the context. Highlights of finals matches for each of the divisions would be shown to familiarize the viewers with the game and show how the Einstein alliances made it to the "Final Four".

The Einstein matches themselves would be shown live, with multiple cameras covering the field. A few of the robots could be equipped with wireless 'bot-cams as well. Coverage of the match might use split-screen, a close-up "picture-in-picture" window and an accurate current score banner across the top. Live coverage is tricky, since action is generally spread across the field. The "play-by-play" announcer needs to be very familiar with the game strategies, robot capabilities, etc. to guide the viewers through the critical action. Immediately after the match, instant replays and recorded 'bot-cam clips could be shown, with a live shot of the drive teams' reaction to the posting of the official score. The SF 1-1, SF 2-1 matches are played back-to-back, with just replays and team introductions between the matches. Then there's time for commercial breaks and "condensed" award presentations. After the break, SF 1-2 and SF 2-2 are played, followed by another break for awards and commericials. If necessary, third matches for the semifinals would be played. There's time available before and between each of the finals matches for more FIRST awards presentations. After the champion is determined, maybe some field-level interviews with drive teams, the trophy presentations and wrap-up with the Chairman's Award.

All of this could be packaged in a 60-minute to 90-minute slot. FIRST officials would have to take it's cues from a director on the field and the teams be ready to go on cue. A challenge would be to build in some "wiggle room" for third matches, ties, timeouts, etc.

It might be interesting to see if this year's championship footage (if it's still available) could be neatly edited to make a "demo tape" for potential broadcast networks (ESPN, Discovery, MTV, TNT - whoever). Even if the networks pass on this, having a well-produced, one-hour FIRST championship video would be very popular among the teams and could even be periodically re-broadcast on NASA TV's "Education File". I know I'd like to have this in my DVD library!