NASA TV: "Heidi Bowl 2"

[Richard Wallace]

I don't like the Heidi Bowl analogy because it doesn't really fit the situation. We're not trying to sell shoes (or other advertised stuff) here -- FIRST is about inspiration and recognition. Yes, that means celebrating success of the participants. But it also means inspiring others to participate. And that means holding their attention long enough to get the message across.

Please don't hang the blame for this on NASA -- this is FIRST's problem, not theirs. NASA is arguably the best friend FIRST has, but even their resources are not boundless (except for creativity, of course).

For many reasons, NASA coverage included, FIRST needs to find a way to make the Championship finish on time.

Please note that the webcast did continue throughout the event, and NASA provides both television and webcasting support for many FIRST events including the kickoff. Those satellite trucks are expensive. (Webcasting isn't free either.)

I don't work for NASA anymore, but whining about getting 8 hours of free satellite TV Nationwide coverage plus all four fields being simultaneously webcast is a bit shallow.