Making pre-match deals

[Dan Richardson]

Originally Posted by Scott358

I can also foresee "gentlemen's agreements" happening, but any discussion of altering the games outcome is collusion (regardless of what it's called), and therefore not in the spirit of GP.

If the FIRST GDC wanted 2 teams to work together and discuss outcomes prior to the match, they would have made a game like 2001. As they have designed the game since then, there are 2 separate teams, and therefore the game should be played as such.

Whats the difference? "Gentlemans Agreement" or "Collusion" its playing tit for tat. Your still agreeing to help each other out in a course that would inevitably alter the outcome of the game.

FIRST has specifically defined that it is in your best interest for your opponent to score as many points as possible. If its in your best interest to allow them to do the best they can why not talk with them before a match?

Now, as far as ethically speaking, in general competition this kind of cooperation is typically frowned upon, yes, But if it is the rule are stated as such then what is the argument about? Until the rule is changed or modified, then this approach is not only ethical its just out right good strategy.

When people scored balls in the opponents goals last year this could have easily been perceived as collusion, however there was nearly no negative response, and no response from FIRST. This strategy was solid and allowed dominant teams to remain in the position they deserved. Since you are not allowed to score opponents tubes the only option left for people to boost their qualifying points is to come to a predetermined agreement. Whether its because of a " Gentlemans Agreement " or a outright "Collusion" its the same thing.

The point that is missed here, is generally no team agrees to lose a match, just to compete in a realm that maximizes points for both teams. Regardless of whether its frowned upon or not, if the rules remain as posted, it will happen, and it won't break the rules. If you find it unethical, the same way most of FIRST participants found collaberation between teams during build unethical, then don't participate. However it is within the realm of this years rules, and infact as per the rules is " In your best interest. "

I personally want the rule to be modified as to specifically by honor, state no such prematch agreements should ever take place, whether it be "Cooperation" or a "Gentlemans Agreement" but until the rules are changed then such agreements will take place.