are there any rules currently out for the animations for this years competition? I am currently working on one and would like to know how long I could make it and what i can and cannot have in it.
The rules will be released with the game. Some “standard” ones include length-30 seconds without credits-and no inappropriate stuff. Last year’s manual will give you a better idea, but the rules will likely change.
I have to disagree. Animation content has not changed since 2002. I doubt it’ll change but FIRST animation gods are viewing this post and they change the content, I’ll personally award them/him/her a cookie. The content traditionally has been a 30 second FIRST commercial. Please keep in mind that nobody (save the animation gods) know what the rules are until January 8th.
From what I understand, there is a Safety Animation contest this fall, which should be announced next week. (i think)… might check into that if you’re interested.
But yes, the main animation rules/content is released with the game in January.
I think that, although it is basically a 30-second FIRST commercial, the focus changes from year to year (e.g. from teamwork to learning). Eventually they’ll run out of aspects of FIRST and be forced to change it–in about 2020 or so. 
Let us know if you have to award the cookie…