A new era for FIRST.....and mixed feelings

[skrussel]

With the advent of the FIRST 2005 season, big changes are in store. Having to qualify to compete at Nationals will change the direction and feeling of the game.

Two schools of thought:
* The competition at Nationals will consist of the higher scoring teams from regionals. This could be much more exciting. More like sports playoffs. Some teams salivate at the thought of moving this whole thing to a new level. Think of what a thrill it would be to qualify. Think of the possibility of thoroughly spectacular matches because most of the robots will be more robust, and more reliable.

Is this a good thing??

* But alas, what about the teams who don't qualify at regionals?
What about the teams who can't build a second bot, or go to multiple regionals to increase their chances?

It's true that we saw some fabulous rookie teams this year. But still, having to qualify to get to Nationals will really keep a lot of teams out of the game.
To have a chance to compete in Nationals has been a highly coveted opportunity over the years. At least with odds/evens, you would get there sooner or later!

So is this then a bad thing??

A little of both maybe. To strive for Nationals can only make us all better, but could the disappointment at not having a chance be disruptive to the existence of a team? Will sponsorship be affected? Will engineering support be affected? Am I being too negative?

Regardless, we're at the beginning of a new era now, and change is inevitable. Wonder how it will all play out?