Do the Pool Noodles for our bumpers have to have holes in them?
It was hard enough to find one without a hole, but I have searched everywhere, and can’t find if we are allowed to use it! Please let me know.
I have looked through the entire relevant section of the Q&A. The question was asked, but never answered (it was with a lot of “Can’t you guys read the rules?” type of questions). It wasn’t asked again.
Now, <R08-B> specifies 2.5" noodles. However, it doesn’t specify holes/no holes. I would assume that this means solid noodles are allowed.
However, I am not the GDC. You may wish to ask the Q&A. Just keep it simple, something like, “Is it permissible to use pool noodles without holes in the bumpers per ?”
Ok, I’ll try that. Thanks.
a) The rule says 2.5" pool noodles. The diagrams and the sample in the KoP are the only reference to holes, and the diagrams, as has been repeatedly stressed, are not rules and cannot be used to infer rules. Nothing supersedes the text of the rule book… so if isn’t in there, then it isn’t a rule. If your pool noodle is 2.5" diameter, then you are good to go.
b) I do a fairly detailed tech inspection, including feeling bumpers to make sure they “feel right”, but I’ve never asked a team to open their bumpers up so that I could check out what was inside. A rule prohibiting a particular style of pool noodle (solid or hollow) would not only be pointless, but mostly unenforcable
But I’d stick with A. FIRST is generally pretty good about the fact that if it isn’t in the rules, then it isn’t a rule! (They are, I might add, excellent about the fact that if it IS in the book then it IS a rule.)
Jason
watch your bumper weight- oddly solid pool noodles weigh quite a bit more than ones with holes
lesson for next year (we learned last year)- buy a bunch of pool noodles in the summer when they are $1 each at the dollar store and you can still get them
I will defiantly be suggesting that for next year after all our trouble this year! Oddly enough, it is surprisingly difficult to buy Pool Noodles in stores. In February. In New Jersey. When school keeps getting delayed/closed due to snow. I never would of guessed. :rolleyes:
Thanks for everyone’s help! I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly you were all able to get me helpful replies after I posted this question. Just goes to show you the teamwork and willingness to help others that can be found in FIRST. You all rock!