[FRC Blog] Pit Set-Up and Trophies

[Hallry]

Posted on the FRC Blog, 10/13/15: http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprogr...p-and-trophies

Pit Set-Up and Trophies

Blog Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2015 - 17:27

Pit Set-Up at Events

We have heard from some in the community that they would like to be able to set up their pits during what would traditionally be a load-in only period the afternoon or evening before events officially start. After considering this carefully, and getting feedback from the Regional Directors, we’ve decided to make this a local option.

While allowing early pit set-up has benefits, it also has some challenges, such as potentially increased costs in some areas and additional volunteer requirements. So, rather than requiring all events to do this one way, events that have the interest, can find the resources, and can support this logistically will be allowed to do so. Teams that want to see this happen at events they are attending may want to consider providing a few volunteers for the event or providing other support to make this a reality. Whether or not teams will be allowed to set up early like this will be indicated on the event schedules. Please note this load-in only period usually applies only to Regionals and some (but not all) District Championships, not District events.

We’ll be providing rules later regarding early pit set-up, but they will be what you would expect – such as a focus on safety, only so many team members allowed in the pits to set up, and a requirement that pit activity end at a certain time, no matter where teams are in the process.

Trophies for the 2016 Season

FIRST HQ has the responsibility to be good stewards of the registration fees we receive from teams and the donations we receive from sponsors and individuals. Occasionally, when we see a cost getting out of line with a potential benefit, we need to take action, even on traditional elements of the program.

FRC has traditionally given out duplicate trophies to all teams earning them at events. ‘Back in the day’ the idea was that one trophy was for the team, one trophy was for the sponsor. I don’t know how broadly the concept of a team having a single sponsor, or even one primary sponsor, holds up currently, but I do know that trophies are a significant expense for the program right now.

For 2016, we’ll be making a change. Rather than providing duplicate trophies to winning teams, we’ll be providing one trophy and one wall plaque recognizing the accomplishment. Wall plaques will come in two sizes, 8” x 10” when paired with smaller trophies and 9” x 12” when paired with larger trophies. Teams will be able to order additional trophies and additional plaques if they desire. Just as with the cost to FIRST, the cost to teams of plaques will be less than the cost of trophies.

This was not an easy decision to make, but we feel it was a necessary step to help us keep our costs under control.

Frank