Regionals start in one week. Before everyone heads off to these I think it would be good time to offer best wishes and maybe some advice to all of the teams as we start this year’s competition.
I know many of these things have been said before, but a quick review might help those rookies and us veterans alike.
Here’s a list to start with…
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Let’s all show patience and appreciation for all of the volunteers and those awesome FIRST people who put on these competitions. Every event will have glitches of one sort or another, let’s all work together to make things run as smoothly as possible. This is especially true of the new regional locations. Remember in most cases, the staff does not make the rules, but they have to enforce them.
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Rookies especially, don’t hesitate to ask for help of any kind. Until you’ve experienced it, it really is hard to imagine how much your competitors and the staff really want to see you do well.
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Remind all of your team mates that each individual is representing your team and thus your school and sponsoring companies. A great impression (typical of teams like CD) will be noticed. Unfortunately, the other kind of impression can also be lasting.
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Please let all potential visitors (or viewers on the webcasts) know your team number and name. It really helps them and the regional staff who get asked to help find someone’s team. A primer on this years game also adds to their enjoyment.
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Remember those safety glasses and all the other safety rules…
I could go on, but I’m sure others will post additional advice or reminders, probably more eloquently.
I wish all of the teams safe travels and a fun experience. I look forward to seeing many of you at Midwest and West Michigan. Let the games begin!