Week two is now a happy memory

Good Afternoon Teams,

I enjoyed my visit to Duluth where FRC held the first ever Superior Lake Regional.  My thanks to everyone who made the event a success and my gratitude to the volunteers with prior experience who traveled long distances to help out and show everyone the ropes.  I’m keeping an eye on the Israel Regional which is happening right now and I’m already packed for my visit to Bayou Regional this weekend.  Week Three is our most challenging week with 14 events.  I appreciate everyone’s help at events during the first two weeks, as your input and assistance go a long way toward making the really busy weeks go more smoothly.

I know there was a miss-communication in Milwaukee last weekend and want everyone to know that FRC encourages the use of safe bench top tools that can be carried in by one person. (See the 2011 FRC Administrative Manual section 4.9.8.) If you encounter a miss-communication at any FRC events in the future, please turn to the 2011 Manual first, then with rule in hand, discuss the problem with the event volunteer.  If you cannot come to an agreement, go to the Event Manager or FTA both of whom can contact FIRST HQ if they can’t resolve the issue themselves.

Now that just over 25% of all FRC teams have been to a competition, we’re starting to see a lot of variation in robots.  I’ve seen everything from plywood parts to sophisticated machined pieces.  As you compete this season, remember FRC is about the experience of problem-solving and working together as a team.  Be gracious to everyone, please!  Each and every team brings something to the table and has something to contribute to the discussion.  Winning feels good for a little while; but what you learn in this 20th FRC season will last a lifetime.

My thanks to all the teams who competed during week one and who completed the week one survey.  I’ve already started to look at your responses.  If your team competed during week two, ask your team main contact to check their inbox for the link to the week two surveys that was sent out yesterday.  I encourage all teams to complete the survey for each event they attend during 2011.  Your answers will help us plan 2012.

The Public agenda for CMP is now available on our website  There may be changes, so check back for updates.

And the Post Season Awards order form is now on line as well.   If your team receives a trophy during the 2011 season and you would like additional trophies to share with a sponsor or with school district, order early.  Quantities of some items are limited.

43 Days until Championship
See you then!