The topic came up in another thread, Richard’s post in particular, so I got to wondering:
Which title is preferable for the alliance that emerges from the final rounds of an event victorious, Regional Winner or Regional Champion?
“Regional Champion” has a nicer ring to it, but on the other hand, “Championship Champion” just sounds silly, while “Championship Winner” sounds fine. So, for the sake of consistency between regionals and the Championship, I have to pick “Regional Winner”.
A note about Championship awards from the 2008 manual…
5.5CHAMPION (CHAMPIONSHIP ONLY)
This award celebrates the alliance that wins the final match of the Championship Playoffs.
5.6CHAMPIONSHIP FINALIST (CHAMPIONSHIP ONLY)
This award celebrates the alliance that makes it to the final match of the Championship Playoffs.
I could go either way, but, the real answer to this question to me is, “What will FIRST have printed on the banners?” The answer to that question should be the answer in the manual. Consistency is what matters.
If all regional winners went to the championship, then it’s OK to call them winners. Since this does not happen, regional champions is appropriate.
John’s comment comes the closest to my way of thinking.
That said, it is very nice to be able to say the words, Regional Champion, when talking with supporters, potential sponsors, and while recruiting.
‘Winner’ works but ‘champion’ sparkles.
I think I prefer “Champion”. “Winner” implies everyone else is a looser and in FIRST I just don’t see any loosers.
the banners say winner…winner it is
Breaking the tie, I say Champion because it gets more people interested. Also with winners there must be losers, but what is the opposite of a champion?
You are the Winner of an Award
You are the Champion of a Competition
I’d say Regional Champion, with the winners at Championship known as World Champions.
Regional Champion
then for the championship you are the Grand Champion
the for Chairmans + Woodie flowers you are the Recipient of _____ Award.