Words of Encouragement from FRC Alumni

Even though I’ve graduated high school, I’m just as excited to learn what the new competition will be about as I was when I was still competing. At the time of writing this, that knowledge is a mystery: My theory is that you all will be required to use pneumatics in some way, shape, or form (though I won’t be surprised if I’m wrong).

The thrill of the day of Kickoff has always been something I’ve enjoyed. When I was still a part of my team, I was able to attend all four Kickoff events for each competition (That’d be Stronghold, Recycle Rush, Aerial Assist, and Ultimate Ascent). The filler videos are always hilariously cheesy, the animation explaining the rules of the game are always adorable (The robot with the boot is the real MVP), and the collaboration between teammates gushing about robot ideas the moment Kickoff ends is always incredibly inspiring. I’m sure I speak for many, if not all, FIRST Alumni when I say that I’ll miss being able to attend Kickoff.

I know that a lot of you will have meetings the day of Kickoff, and that you’ll start building that week (if not the same day) after planning what you want your bot to be able to do. In six short weeks, your ~120 pound masterpieces will be the result of individual thought crafted into a machine for competition.

I, along with all other FIRST Alumni, wish those competing this year a lovely build season! I hope you never lose your allen wrenches, screws, and other tools! For those in cold climates, I hope your build site is heated and comfortably warm.

-Wheatley, Team 2421 Alumni