1. World Championship Wrap-Up
At the end of April, the FTC World Championships were held in St. Louis. Feel free to view some of the pictures, and see if you recognize anyone or any teams. http://georgemarchant.
Congratulations, Iowa teams #458, #3549, #3550, #5466 on a job well done!
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2. Rockwell Collins Team Grants
Rockwell Collins has graciously agreed to help support FTC teams starting up, or who were rookie teams during the 2011-2012 Season, via team grants.
These grants are specifically targeted for the rookie teams (new to FTC for the 2012-2013 season) or returning teams (rookies during the 2011-2012 season). Grants amounts can range to cover the FIRST Registration cost or the purchase of the kit-of-parts. Please apply early, as there are a limited number of these grants.
Eligible teams will agree to the following:
- Teams must be located in Iowa;
- Teams must have been rookies during the 2011-2012 season (team numbers with 5xxx) or will be rookie teams during the 2012-2013 Season;
- Rockwell will only sponsor two teams per location;
- Teams consist of 5-10 team members between the ages of 14-18;
- Teams will meet weekly throughout the season;
- Coaches will participate in a training session;
- Teams will participate in at least one tournament, either a qualifier or a championship event; and
- Coach will be responsible for managing the team and participating in a post-season evaluation.
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3. Request to Host Events
Starting with the 2012-2013 Season, FTC-Iowa would like to offer as many events in a variety of communities throughout Iowa. If you are interested in hosting an event (workshop, scrimmage or skills driving event), we invite you to complete the form at: https://uiowa.qualtrics.com/
A few things to keep in mind: 1) Please complete this form before June 1, 2012; 2) The locations of the Qualifier Tournaments have already been selected and they will begin Nov. 3rd; and 3) All scrimmage/workshop events will need to be held before Nov. 20, 2012.
Save the Date: FTC Kick-Off Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012 at Vinton-Shellsburg High School, in Vinton. More information, including times, will be released at a later date. (See attached invitation)
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4. 2012-2013 Registration is Open
Starting today, May 9, 2012, (at 12 noon EST) teams can register for the 2012-2013 FTC Season. HOWEVER, if you plan to apply for a Rockwell Collins Returning team grant, do not register with FIRST until you hear about the status of your application (typically every Friday), as you need to enter a code to activate your grant status. If you do not plan to get a Rockwell Collins grant, or if you coach a team not eligible for the Rockwell Collins grant, go ahead and register at www.usfirst.org
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5. MATRIX System
Beginning the 2012-2013 Season, teams will now have the option to integrate/use the new approved MATRIX system. Robots will be able to use TETRIX parts and MATRIX parts. For more information, please visit: http://www.usfirst.org/
Have a great summer and we look forward to working with you for the 2012-2013 FTC Season.
