I was struck by the post-game interview with rookie New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler last night.
Though completely overwhelmed with emotion and the impact of his accomplishment, he said this:
"I just had a vision that I was going to make a great play and it came true....it all comes down to preparation."
Butler's
Super Bowl-winning interception at the goal line was a direct result of
his hard work and dedication to continuous improvement, both on and off
the field.
He practiced day in and day out and studied game film to decipher and anticipate the offensive moves of the Seahawks. (This video clip, from a November 2014 visit to Vicksburg High School, also captures his philosophy.)
Now I think I know what you're thinking:
What does this have to do with a robotics competition?
Simply this:
We need your time and talents to help NYC FIRST teams have their defining moment as the emerging scientists, engineers and technology leaders of tomorrow.
As a competition judge, you help participants learn that hard work, preparation and perseverance are valued and rewarded.
No
experience is needed, we welcome all volunteers both non-technical and
technical, and training is provided. Breakfast and lunch are, of course,
served.
Upcoming volunteer opportunities for competition judges:
FIRST Tech Challenge Qualifier
Saturday February 14th
7 a.m.-4 p.m.
Murry Bergtraum High School
411 Pearl St.
New York, NY
FIRST Tech Challenge Qualifier
Saturday February 21st
7 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dalton School Athletic Complex
200 E. 87th St.
New York, NY
FIRST Tech Challenge NYC/LI Championship
Sunday March 1st
7 a.m.-4 p.m.
NYU Polytechnic School of Engineering
6 MetroTech Center
Brooklyn, NY
NYC FIRST Lego League Championships
Saturday March 14th
7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Javits Convention Center
655 W. 34th St.
NY, NY
Please email me if you're interested in any of these opportunities and I'll send you more information.
Warm regards and with much appreciation,
Norm Sutaria
Director of Programs
NYC FIRST
