2009-2010 Kick-off

On Thursday, October 22, 2009 was Team 230’s Kickoff meeting which marked the beginning of the 09-10 season. The recruitment period ended with the Kickoff meeting, where team members, mentors, alumni, parents, volunteers and subject enthusiasts met in the Shelton High School media center to discuss the upcoming events of Team 230’s 12th year. Team Kickoff meeting was one of the important meetings as parents were given crucial information about what they need to know regarding exactly what the team is and does. The diligent team mentors such as Mr. Niski, Mr. Taylor, Mrs. Spoldi, Mr. Vogl and other mentors discussed the ideals of the FIRST Robotics Competition as well as the events for the upcoming season.

Mentors spent the night explaining events such as the Competition Kickoff, the regional competitions the team will be attending, and the many fundraisers the team holds throughout the year, including the upcoming Wii Bowling Tournament. Many of the corporate sponsors who support our team, including our major sponsors of Sikorsky Aircraft and Pitney Bowes were also addressed and thanked during the lecture. Parents and volunteers were encouraged to refer any institutions or individuals who might be interested in sponsoring. By the end of the meeting prospective members of the team were excited and awed by various opportunities the team offers; many said that they are eagerly looking forward to being in the team to practice gracious professionalism.

Parents were given a packet of approval forms and safety contacts to fill in order to ensure the safety of each student member while he or she works in the team. In addition, each student was given a Permanent Enrichment pass.

After the presentation was over, the entire group enjoyed deserts and refreshments contributed by members of the team, which provided for an excellent array of delicious treats. Overall, 2009-2010 Kickoff was another successful event that left all members excited to get the season off to a great start!