Start a Team

Step 1: Learn about the FTC experience

Connect with your local Affiliate Partner to learn the ins and outs of FTC.  They will help you understand all the requirements for starting a team and can fill you in on what to expect during your Team's rookie year.  If possible, attend an FTC event in your area.  This will give you a good idea of what to expect and they are always free and open to the public.

You can also contact FTC Team Support by calling (800) 871-8326 or e-mailing ftcteams@usfirst.org.  The team support staff can answer all your questions on costs, kits and general info.

Another useful tool is the Season Timeline.  This will help you plan your season and know when your team should meet certain benchmarks.

Step 2: Enlist Coaches/Mentors

In the FIRST Tech Challenge the terms Coach and Mentor are used interchangeably to describe an adult team member who leads students by example.  Mentors are expected to practice Gracious Professionalism™ and act as positve role models for the team.  A technical background is helpful, but not necessary. Learning alongside the team is expected.  Coaches must acquire some basic knowledge of the programming environment and robot building.  Non-technical mentors can utilize the Non-Engineering Mentor Organization website for support groups and information.  View the Mentor Guide for a full description of this role!

To find additional or technical Mentors for your team, contact high schools, colleges, chambers of commerce and technology companies in your area.  Your local Affiliate Partner will also have connections and is a good resource for networking with the right people.

Each team needs at least one coach or mentor over the age of 18 to register.

Step 3: Build your Team

Teams are made up of students who are ready to take on the challenges of high school level Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathmatics concepts and apply them to robotics.  A team of 3-10 members is recommended.

Step 4: Register your Team

Once you've visited events, enlisted Mentors/Coaches and built your team, it's time to register your team.  Visit the Registration page for details on cost, budgeting and instructions on how to register your team.