What if the FIRST teams that qualify for the Championships adopt teams that do not qualify. We adopted a Dallas team for the Championships in Houston and it was an enormous success. A couple of things that happened were
-They hung out with us and became part of the team. Many friendships between our teams began at the Championships. They participated in our team discussions. Also, they wore our team shirts and we wore their team buttons.
-They brought their robot and if the possibility presented itself, we were going to let them run a practice round on Thursday so they could have the opportunity to “play” in Reliant Stadium (This would not be the greatest of ideas if there are 300 adopted teams at the Championships). Please understand that we NEVER considered allowing them to compete in a regular match … definitely against the rules. We also used their robot to demo to the public.
-They saved $4,000 We were alliance partners at the Houston Regional and lost in the finals by a couple of points.
-The principal and other administrators from their school attended the Championships because their team was “participating” and now the FIRST program at their school is stronger than ever.
-They volunteered alongside our team to help the organizers of the FRC and FLL events.
Now for a few pros and cons
-It’s good because teams could decide now to attend the Championships regardless if they qualify or not.
-It’s bad because teams might become complacent.
-It’s good because the students will experience a great event based around engineering and sportsmanship.
-It’s good for the Atlanta economy.
-It’s good for filling up the seats in the stadium (although Houston WILL be the first to fill an NFL stadium for a FIRST event Yes, we will be moving the Houston Regional into Reliant Stadium soon (playing field(s) and pits on the floor of the stadium … no ramps to negotiate … it is going to be awesome. Houston is so serious that we are offering $5,000 sponsorships … see www.HoustonRobotics.org. Again, congratulations Atlanta for hosting the Championships!)
-It’s good because the adopted teams would have time to volunteer.
-It’s bad because … hmmmmmm, can’t think of anymore.
-It’s good because it raises awareness of the adopted team’s administration.
What do you think … it’s good because … it’s bad because.
Take care,
Lucien