For 2019, we are focusing on providing virtual fields to all teams and for all kickoffs. Virtual fields have been available in the past, but we are inviting sponsors to provide a greater range of resources; from simple ‘google cardboard’-like experiences that can be used on common smart phones to a full-on virtual experience that use high end headsets.

The resources will be available immediately after the kickoff broadcast, and we’ll be notifying teams and kickoffs of what they can expect in the coming months.

We are making this push toward virtual fields for two reasons. First, virtual fields are a more practical tool for a growing number of teams. We are very excited about the opportunities virtual fields can provide teams in developing their game strategies. Second, there is a serious problem with the current field builder program.

As many of you probably know, for years we’ve had a field builder program under which FIRST Robotics Competition Kickoffs can receive plans to the “team versions” (the wooden versions) of the fields in advance of the official kickoff. This gave these field builders time to build the fields before kickoff so they could be ready for the teams to review.

However, there has been a persistent issue with the system: game leaks. While the field builders and their assistants don’t get access to the game manual ahead of time, anyone seeing the drawings or components of the game in advance can make a pretty good guess as to what the game entails (and, sometimes just as importantly, what it doesn’t entail) and what the teams may be asked to deal with. And while the great majority of field builders and their assistants keep what they see confidential, it only takes a few to break the secrecy of the game for all.

So, for the coming season, the field builder program is being replaced by the expanded availability of virtual fields (“team versions” will still be published with the rest of the game documentation at Kickoff).

For some, this is not a significant change. 45% of kickoffs, including some of our largest (with over 50 teams attending), did not have field builders for the 2018 season. For others used to seeing the team version of fields at kickoff, this will be significant. I recognize this change will not be popular with everyone, but I believe the move toward virtual kickoff fields is a natural evolution and enhancement of our program and is necessary to help preserve the integrity of the season.

I want to thank our field builders for all the work they’ve put into that program over the years. They’ve helped enhance the team experience at many kickoffs, and the great majority had the personal integrity necessary to not share confidential game information.

Frank