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®
2014-2015 FIRST Tech Challenge
Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
2 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Volunteer Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to volunteer for a FIRST Tech Challenge Event. FIRST and FTC rely
heavily on Volunteers to ensure Events run smoothly and are a fun experience for Teams and their
families, which could not happen without people like you. With over 4,000 Teams competing annually,
your dedication and commitment are paramount to the success of each Event and the FTC program.
Thank you for your time and effort in supporting the mission of FIRST!
Sponsor Thank You
Thank you to our generous sponsors for your continued support of the FIRST Tech Challenge!
Official Program Sponsor
CAD and Collaboration Sponsor
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
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Revision History
Revision
1
Date
10/3/14
Description
Initial Release
Contents
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 5
What is the FIRST Tech Challenge? .................................................................................................... 5
FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Core Values .......................................................................................... 5
What is the FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee/Game Announcer Manual? ............................................... 6
Gracious ProfessionalismTM ..................................................................................................................... 7
Gracious Professionalism for Volunteers .............................................................................................. 7
FIRST Youth Protection Program............................................................................................................. 8
Youth Protection Expectations and Guidelines ..................................................................................... 8
Position Descriptions ............................................................................................................................... 9
Emcee Role.......................................................................................................................................... 9
Game Announcer Role ......................................................................................................................... 9
Dividing the Responsibilities ................................................................................................................. 9
Training ................................................................................................................................................ 9
Organizational Chart .............................................................................................................................. 10
Role Responsibilities .............................................................................................................................. 11
Emcee and Game Announcer Safety ................................................................................................. 11
Pre-Tournament Responsibilities ........................................................................................................... 12
Tournament Day Responsibilities ........................................................................................................... 12
Day of the Event ................................................................................................................................. 12
Opening Ceremonies.......................................................................................................................... 12
Let the Games Begin! ......................................................................................................................... 13
Do’s and Don’ts .................................................................................................................................. 13
Don’t: .............................................................................................................................................. 13
Do: .................................................................................................................................................. 13
Alliance Selection and Final Matches ................................................................................................. 14
Closing and Awards Ceremonies ....................................................................................................... 14
Performance Tips ............................................................................................................................... 14
Technical Tips .................................................................................................................................... 14
Recap ................................................................................................................................................. 14
Appendices ............................................................................................................................................ 15
Appendix A: Resources.......................................................................................................................... 16
4 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Emcee and Game Announcer Training video ..................................................................................... 16
Game Forum Q&A - http://ftcforum.usfirst.org/forum.php .................................................................... 16
FTC Game Manuals – Part I and II - http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/ftc/game ..................... 16
FIRST Headquarters Support ............................................................................................................. 16
USFIRST.ORG ................................................................................................................................... 16
FIRST Tech Challenge Social Media .................................................................................................. 16
Appendix B – Sample FTC Announcer Terminology .............................................................................. 17
Appendix C – Opening Ceremony Script ................................................................................................ 18
Appendix D – Alliance Selection Script .................................................................................................. 21
Appendix E – Awards Script ................................................................................................................... 24
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
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Introduction
What is the FIRST Tech Challenge?
®
FIRST Tech Challenge is a student-centered activity that focuses on giving students a unique and
stimulating experience. Each year, Teams participate in a new Game that requires them to design, build,
test, and program autonomous and driver-operated Robots that must perform a series of tasks.
The Playing Field for the Game consists of the FIRST
Tech Challenge Game Pieces set up on a foam-mat
surface, surrounded by a metal and Lexan Field frame.
Each Tournament features Alliances, which are
Details about setting up a
comprised of two Teams, competing against one another
Playing Field can be found on
on the Playing Field. Teams work to overcome obstacles
the FTC website.
and meet challenges, while learning from and interacting
with their peers and adult Mentors. Students develop a
greater appreciation of science and technology and how
they might use that knowledge to impact the world around
them in a positive manner. They also cultivate life skills such as:
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Planning, brainstorming, and creative problem-solving.
Research and technical skills.
Collaboration and Teamwork.
Appreciation of differences and respect for the ideas and contributions of others.
To learn more about FTC and other FIRST Robotics competitions, visit www.usfirst.org.
FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Core Values
Volunteers are integral to the FIRST community. The FIRST Tech Challenge relies on Volunteers to
run the program at many levels, from managing a region to Mentoring an individual Team. FTC
Affiliate Partners coordinate the program in each region or state. These FTC Partners fundraise, run
Tournaments, hold workshops and demonstrations, market FTC locally, handle public relations, and
recruit Volunteers and Teams. They are a tremendous resource for Mentors and FTC would not
exist without them.
FIRST asks everyone who participates in FTC to uphold the following values:
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We act with integrity.
We are a Team.
We do the work to get the job done with guidance from our Coaches and Mentors.
We respect each other in the best spirit of Teamwork.
We honor the spirit of friendly competition.
What we learn is more important than what we win.
We behave with courtesy and compassion for others at all times.
We share our experiences with others.
We display Gracious Professionalism in everything we do.
We have fun.
We encourage others to adopt these values.
6 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
What is the FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee/Game Announcer Manual?
The purpose of the FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee
and Game Announcer Manual is to:
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Provide new Emcees and Game
Announcers with a foundation of knowledge
and ideas to fulfill their roles at Events.
Familiarize new Emcees and Game
Announcers with the FIRST experience.
Help returning Emcees and Game
Announcers refresh their skills for the
upcoming season.
The guide focuses on the skills and concepts
needed for the development of the following general
goals:
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Allowing the students and Teams to be the
main focus of the Event.
To support the students and Teams by providing helping information and commentary around and
during the competition events.
To help Emcees and Game Announcers focus their skills on promoting the talents of the students
and Teams and relaying the competition action to the audience.
This guide would not be possible without the contributions of time, ideas, and resources provided by
the following people:

Content provided by Blair Hundertmark and Barry Bonzack.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Gracious ProfessionalismTM
FIRST uses this term to describe the program’s intent. This is one of the most important concepts that
can be taught to a young person who is learning to get along in the work world. At FIRST, Team
members help other Team members, but they also help other Teams.
Gracious Professionalism is not clearly defined for a reason. It can and should mean different things to
everyone.
Some possible meanings of Gracious Professionalism include:
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Gracious attitudes and behaviors are win-win.
Gracious folks respect others and let that respect show
in their actions.
Professionals possess special knowledge and are
trusted by society to use that knowledge responsibly.
Gracious Professionals make a valued contribution in a
manner pleasing to others and to themselves.
An example of Gracious
Professionalism is patiently
listening to a Team’s question
and providing support despite
having several pressing
things to do on the day of the
Event.
In the context of FIRST, this means that all Teams and
participants should:
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Learn to be strong competitors, but also treat one another with respect and kindness in the
process.
Avoid leaving anyone feeling as if they are excluded or unappreciated.
Knowledge, pride and empathy should be comfortably and genuinely blended.
In the end, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. When professionals use
knowledge in a gracious manner and individuals act with integrity and sensitivity, everyone wins,
and society benefits.
Watch Dr. Woodie Flowers explain Gracious Professionalism in this short video.
“The FIRST spirit encourages doing high-quality, well-informed work in a
manner that leaves everyone feeling valued. Gracious Professionalism
seems to be a good descriptor for part of the ethos of FIRST. It is part of what
makes FIRST different and wonderful.”
- Dr. Woodie Flowers, National Advisor for FIRST
Gracious Professionalism for Volunteers
It is a good idea to spend time going over this concept with Volunteers. Provide the Volunteers with
real-life examples of Gracious Professionalism in practice before, during, and after the Event and
recognize great Gracious Professionalism when you see it in action!
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8 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
FIRST Youth Protection Program
The purpose of the FIRST Youth Protection Program
(FIRST YPP) is to provide coaches, mentors, volunteers,
employees, others working in FIRST programs, team
members, parents, and guardians of team members with
information, guidelines, and procedures to create safe
environments for everyone participating in FIRST programs.
The FIRST YPP sets minimum standards recommended for
all FIRST activities. Adults working in FIRST programs must
be knowledgeable of the standards set by the FIRST YPP,
as well as those set by the school or organization hosting
their team.
Youth Protection Expectations and Guidelines
Coaches and Mentors are expected to read and follow
elements in the FIRST Youth Protection Program guide that
are labeled as required are mandatory in the United States
and Canada, and may not be waived without the approval of
the FIRST Youth Protection Department.
FIRST recommends that the standards set forth in the FIRST Youth Protection Program guide be applied
outside of the United States and Canada to the extent possible. At a minimum, local regulations
regarding youth protection must be complied with.
Forms are available here: http://www.usfirst.org/aboutus/youthprotection-program
Everyone working with
FIRST Teams should be
familiar with the FIRST
YPP policies.
Information on the US Screening process is available here:
http://www.usfirst.org/sites/default/files/uploadedFiles/About_Us/US
-Youth-Protection-Clearance-Process.pdf
Information on the Canadian Screening process is available here:
http://www.usfirst.org/sites/default/files/uploadedFiles/About_Us/Ca
nadian-Youth-Protection-Clearance.pdf
You can find FAQ and additional information about the FIRST Youth Protection Program on the FIRST
website at: http://www.usfirst.org/aboutus/youth-protection-program
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
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Position Descriptions
Emcee Role
Every FIRST event is a place for celebrations; a gathering of intelligent and dedicated students,
educators, professionals, parents and Mentors. It is the primary role of the Emcee is to act as the “Master
of Ceremonies” and to facilitate the event and provide match information and announcements to the
Teams and audience. The Emcee typically facilitates the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. They must
be enthusiastic and energetic and able to entertain the audience while keeping the spotlight on the
Teams and competition matches.
Game Announcer Role
It is the role of the Game Announcer to describe the action on the competition field; clearly, concisely,
with energy and enthusiasm, and in a positive manner. Your role at the event is to be a voice. Always
remember that the students and Teams are intended to be the center stage.
Dividing the Responsibilities
Depending on the size and scope of the event there may be both an Emcee and a Game Announcer.
Typically the Emcee is in charge of Event updates and sharing important information with the Teams and
audience, while the Game Announcer provides the Match play-by-plays. Please see your Volunteer
Coordinator for your Event’s specific role break down.
Training
After your Volunteer Coordinator assigns you to your role in VIMS you will receive an e-mail with a link to
a folder on Box.com with Emcee and Game Announcer information, Manuals, an optional training video
and also a link to the Volunteer Forum. Please familiarize yourself with the Game Manuals Part I and II
and make sure that you have a detailed understanding of the Cascade Effect Game.
10 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Organizational Chart
The Emcee and Game Announcers report to the Field Manager. Refer to the Organizational Chart below
for the relationship between roles and Volunteer reporting at Tournaments.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
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Role Responsibilities
The Game Announcer’s role is vital to a successful Event. Being informed, knowledgeable, and
comfortable on your role will directly translate into a better Event, and in turn make the Event more
enjoyable for the Teams and spectators. The Game Announcer’s role is working with the Emcee to:
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Introduce Teams.
Provide play-by-play commentary.
Report the scores.
The Game Announcer should primarily speak only for Team introductions, play-by-play commentary, and
score announcement. It is the Emcee’s job to be a visual presence, to inform the audience, and to keep
the Event lively and moving forward. The Game Announcer role is to be an audible FTC presence at an
Event. The differentiation between the roles is critical to aid the audience on where to focus their
attention. It is also crucial to work in harmony with the Emcee to create a support structure, and avoid
competitive/overlapping speaking.
In order to have a successful Event, this position requires
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A lively, animated vocal personality.
Good public speaking skills.
A pleasant sounding voice.
The ability to handle unanticipated situations.
Lots of energy!
The Game Announcer must embody the spirit and Gracious Professionalism™ of FTC, while being fun,
energetic, creative, and organized.
Emcee and Game Announcer Safety
Dress for this role includes safety glasses or side shields on shatterproof prescription eyeglasses worn at
all times on and around the Competition Playing Fields. In addition, wear comfortable clothing that will
allow you to move easily and closed-toed shoes that will provide all-day-on-your-feet comfort and will not
harm the foam Playing Field floor covering.
12 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Pre-Tournament Responsibilities
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The Game Announcer should review all of the names of the Teams and get acquainted with the
Game before arrival.
Arrive early to meet with the FTC Affiliate Partner or Tournament Director to discuss the day’s
agenda, list of speakers, final Event details, and Opening/Closing Ceremonies.
Meet with the Emcee to discuss Team introduction protocol.
The Emcee and Game Announcer should discuss a backup plan if displays fail. In this instance it
will fall on the Game Announcer/Emcee to communicate scores and Match numbers to the
Teams.
Tournament Day Responsibilities
Day of the Event
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Review the Opening Ceremonies script with the FTC Affiliate Partner.
Review pronunciation of Judge and guest speaker names and titles.
Introduce yourself to Teams, Judges, and guest speakers.
Do your homework and double check that Team names, Team nicknames, Robot names,
sponsors, etc. are all correct. You can worth with the check-in Volunteer to confirm all Team
information.
The Emcee and Game Announcer should establish Team introduction protocol with the Field
Manager.
Opening Ceremonies
After the Affiliate Partner or Tournament Director has confirmed that all guest speakers and Judges are
present, the show begins. The Opening Ceremonies script, which has been prepared by the Affiliate
Partner, is used by the Emcee, A/V crew, and Affiliate Partner to ensure synchronization. Work with
together with the Affiliate Partner and Technical Director – they are the “Directors” of the show. See
Appendix C for an editable Opening Ceremonies Script. A Word doc version will be in the folder on
Box.com.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
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Let the Games Begin!
During the Qualification Matches, after the Emcee introduces each Team by number, the Game
Announcer completes the introductions (full name on first intro only, short name thereafter); then the
Emcee counts down “3, 2, 1, Go” to start the
Match. The Game Announcer provides play-byplay commentary and time remaining
announcements. The Referees score the Match
and the Game Announcer announces the score
as it is displayed by the A/V crew.
Make timed announcements at 1 minute played,
30 seconds remaining, 10 seconds remaining,
and the countdown for the last 5 seconds.
Additionally, work on getting a rhythm between
the Game Announcer and the Emcee. Often the
crowd noise is so loud that you cannot hear one
another. Establishing a rhythm, such as making
eye contact to connect, ensures that you don’t
talk at the same time. See Appendix B for sample Announcer terminology and phrasing.
Do’s and Don’ts
Don’t:
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Do:
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Never direct strategy to the Teams. Your job is to comment on the play, not to direct it.
Do not interfere or attempt to influence the Referee rulings.
Do not emphasize winning above all else.
Do not play favorites or endlessly praise veteran Teams over rookies (or other veterans).
Do not scream or talk so fast that you cannot be understood. You have 6+ hours per day to
maintain audience attention. Screaming unintelligibly is grating.
Do not do “shout out’s”, “happy birthday” wishes, etc. to the audience. This is both unprofessional
and opens the floodgates for endless birthday announcements.
Speak slowly and clearly. Diction is very important.
Use optimistic phrases to encourage poorly performing Teams. Example: “Team 123 is trying to
get something going”, or “it looks like Team 123 is having trouble getting their Robot in gear,
hopefully they can figure something out, there’s still 1:30 remaining in the Match.”
Make the descriptions as lively and interesting as possible (without making it sound like a death
Match!).
Behave professionally.
Be ready to begin each Match as soon as the Field is reset, and do not get distracted by personal
business (phone calls, chatting, etc.).
Use Team names as often as possible rather than exclusively referring to the Team number.
Mention something about every team in every round.
Pay attention to the movement of folks around the Playing area to avoid collisions.
14 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Remember to keep the focus on the Teams and the students. The Teams and the audience want to be
entertained by both the event and the Match play. Use your personality to help make the Teams and
Event shine!
Alliance Selection and Final Matches
The Emcee runs the Alliance Selection in the same area as the Playing Fields. The Alliance Selection is
an important part of the FTC Event for both Teams and the audience and should be presented with as
much energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism as possible. See Appendix D for an editable Opening
Ceremonies Script. A Word doc version will be in the folder on Box.com.
Closing and Awards Ceremonies
At some events, Closing Ceremonies occur during the Semi-Final and Final rounds, with speakers and
Award presentations placed between Matches. This is totally fine. This Script is organized all together,
but could easily be separated. See Appendix E for an editable Opening Ceremonies Script. A Word doc
version will be in the folder on Box.com.
Performance Tips
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If everything sounds the same to the audience they will eventually tune out, so use vocal variety:
o Vary your speaking style and volume throughout the event.
o If your delivery is consistently too high energy, the audience may get anxious and will lose
interest.
o An energetic, varied delivery is interesting and inviting to an audience.
Develop your own style; don’t try to be someone you are not.
Silence is okay. Let the action speak for itself sometimes. Constant announcing will cause the
audience to tune you out. Remember, you have to make all 50+ Matches interesting.
Technical Tips
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Routinely check to make sure your headset is in the best position to pick up your voice and not
riding too high or too low on your head.
If using a hand held microphone, hold it close to your mouth and speak into it, not over it.
Confirm that your microphone is off before speaking off-line.
Recap
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Be prepared.
Stay on schedule; Team intros are very fast-paced in order to keep the Competition on schedule.
Make the event as polished and professional as you can.
Remember that the Playing Field is only one piece of the event – decisions made there affect all
other areas.
Utilize the experience of the FTC Affiliate Partner and Technical Director.
You are representing FIRST.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
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2014-2015 FIRST Tech Challenge®
Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Appendices
16 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Appendix A: Resources
Emcee and Game Announcer Training video
Will be released October 2014. Access instructions will be available on Box.com.
Game Forum Q&A - http://ftcforum.usfirst.org/forum.php
FTC Game Manuals – Part I and II - http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/ftc/game
FIRST Headquarters Support
Phone: 603-666-3906
Email: FTCTeams@usfirst.org
USFIRST.ORG
FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Page – For everything FTC.
FTC Volunteer Resources – To access public Volunteer Manuals.
FTC Season Timeline – Find FTC events in your area.
FIRST Tech Challenge Social Media
FTC Twitter Feed - If you are on Twitter, follow the FTC twitter feed for news updates.
FTC Facebook page - If you are on Facebook, follow the FTC page for news updates.
FTC YouTube Channel – Contains training videos, game animations, news clips, and more.
FTC Blog – Weekly articles for the FTC community, including Outstanding Volunteer Recognition!
FTC Team Email Blasts – contain the most recent FTC news for Teams.
FTC Google+ community - If you are on Google+, follow the FTC community for news updates.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Appendix B – Sample FTC Announcer Terminology
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Races the Robot
Hauls, drags, draws, lugs, tows, tugs the goal across mid-Field
Slides, slips, creeps across the Field
Racing the clock
Sprints, sails, dashes, heads, rushes, runs for the platform
Changes direction
Transitions smoothly
Possesses a bonus Ball
A scoring machine
Is filling the goal
Races to the goal
A Hail Mary Attempt at the buzzer
Scores at mid-Field
Flies out of home base
Unleashes a charge
Pops it high
Controlling the game
In control of the game
Drives it home
Pops into reverse
Backs away from trouble
Extends the shooter
Skidding across the Field
Releases the Ball
Flips, tips over
Avoids trouble
Pops another shot into the goal
Slam dunks another shot for the Blue Alliance
Limping to the buzzer
Spinning their wheels
Owns the goal
Drops the Ball
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18 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Appendix C – Opening Ceremony Script
Affiliate Partner or Tournament Director: Good morning [Insert name of Locale]! Welcome to the
[Insert name of Event] My name is _______________ and I’m the [insert FTC title here].
I’m excited each and every one of you is here today because we’re going to have a blast! I know you’ve
been working hard to design and build your robot and I can’t wait to see how your robots compete in this
year’s challenge.
As many of you know, FIRST is a non-profit that has been inspiring kids to engage in science and math
disciplines for over twenty years. In 2005, the FIRST Tech Challenge was launched and it joined the
other FIRST programs: Jr. FIRST LEGO League, FIRST LEGO League and the FIRST Robotics
Competition. FTC has rapidly grown to over 3,000 Teams around the globe. All the FIRST Programs
combined reach nearly 300,000 students in more than 70 countries around the globe. So,
congratulations for choosing to be part of such a dynamic and growing community.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math studies have never been so important and FTC is playing a
huge role in getting kids involved in these disciplines. Parents and Mentors, your presence here to
support your children and students is crucial in this process, thank you!
And remember, FIRST has partnered with many great colleges and universities who want FIRST Team
members – and who are offering your students scholarship money to come and study with them. Many of
the scholarships are for studying engineering, science, or math. But nearly 40% of our participating
colleges and universities offer scholarships that can be used for any major. Many scholarships go
unused because students don’t apply, so I urge you, even if you think it’s a longshot, apply for some of
these scholarships. The money is there for you and all because you worked hard and dedicated yourself
to a FIRST Team. For more information about the generous FIRST scholarships please check out the
FIRST web site.
Students, I want you to do something for me today. I want you to keep the idea of Gracious
Professionalism in the backs of your minds today. This means you’re going to do your best work and at
the same time, you’re going to respect and value the other students and Teams here. Today is where
the rubber meets the road for all the hard work you’ve put into designing, building and programming your
Robots. Good luck.
At this time, I’d like to introduce everyone to today’s Master of Ceremonies –[Insert name].
Emcee: Good morning and welcome! Are you ready to make some noise? I said are you ready to make
some noise?! That’s better. This is going to be a great day of Competition, I’ve checked out your robots
in the Pits, and they are impressive! Before we get to the first Match, we have a few distinguished
guests we’d like to introduce to you. Please give a warm FTC welcome to [insert Guest Speaker title
and name].
Guest Speaker comments
Emcee: Next, it’s my pleasure to introduce [insert Guest Speaker title and name].
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
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Guest Speaker comments
Emcee: Each year, FTC introduces a new challenge for the Teams. Let’s now take a look at this year’s
challenge, FTC BLOCK PARTY!
(Play Kick-off video and Game Animation)
Emcee: At this time, I’d like to introduce you to a very important group of people, our Judges.
(Enter Judges)
Emcee: These individuals have the very difficult job of singling out the best of the best of today’s many
excellent Teams. They’ve already been busy this morning, interviewing Teams and reviewing
Engineering Notebooks. They’ll be in the Pit Area and watching Matches before deliberating a little later
today. We look forward to seeing the outcome of their hard work at the Awards Ceremony this
afternoon. Let’s give them a big round of applause for their hard work!
(Applause)
(Exit Judges)
Emcee: Next, I’d like to introduce you to the Field Technical Advisors, or FTAs.
(Enter FTAs)
Emcee: These Volunteers know the ins-and-outs of the technology we use to run this Competition and
are key to keeping things moving smoothly. They are in charge of ensuring the Robots are running
properly on the Field and communicating with the Field Control System. Thank you FTAs and have a
great Competition.
(Applause)
(Exit FTAs)
Emcee: At this time, I’d like to introduce you to our Team of Referees.
(Enter Referees)
Emcee: Please keep in mind that they have a difficult job ensuring everyone is playing by the rules. As
in all sports, their rulings are final and there will be no re-runs or video re-plays. We have a full schedule
and need to complete all the Qualification Matches in the time allowed. Please help us stick to the
schedule by respecting their decisions and following the appropriate challenge process. Thanks
Referees, have a great Competition.
(Applause)
(Exit Referees)
Emcee: We all know that Mentors and Coaches are critical to the learning experience and your Team’s
success. We realize that many of you are also mentoring Teams from one of the other FIRST
20 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Progression of Programs: Junior FIRST LEGO League, FIRST LEGO League, and the FIRST Robotics
Competition. So a big thank you to all the Mentors and Coaches for all your time and efforts on behalf of
all FIRST programs. You really are making a difference!
(Applause)
Emcee: A few minutes ago [Insert Affiliate Partner or Tournament Director] talked about Gracious
Professionalism. We want to take this opportunity to tell you a little more about this core value of FIRST,
and who better to help explain GP than the man who coined the term, FIRST National Advisor Dr.
Woodie Flowers.
(Play GP Video)
(Please adjust the following schedule wording to apply to your event)
Emcee: Well said, Woodie. Now here’s what the general schedule for the day looks like: at the
conclusion of Opening Ceremonies we’ll begin our Qualification Matches. Following the Qualification
round we’ll move on to the Alliance selection, where the top ranked Teams will choose their Alliance
partners for this afternoon’s Elimination Tournament. And finally, after we have crowned a champion on
the playing Field, we’ll begin our Awards Ceremony to close out this exciting day.
Emcee: But before we begin the Matches, please rise for the playing/singing of our National Anthem.
(National Anthem)
Emcee: Teams, are you ready for FTC Cascade Effect? Let’s get this Competition started! Teams in
the first Match please take the Field as we get ready to start the day with Match number one of the 2013
FTC Competition here in [insert name of locale]. Good luck to all the Teams!
(play music to keep energy up while Teams set up on the Field and Team Introductions begin)
(if using a Game Announcer, introduce him/her before beginning first introduction)
Emcee: Ladies and gentleman the other voice you’ll be hearing today is our Game Announcer, please
welcome [Insert Name]
(Applause)
Emcee: Okay, lets meet the Teams…
(Emcee and Game Announcer begin Team introduction and start of Match play protocol)
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
| 21
Appendix D – Alliance Selection Script
Note: The Emcee runs the Alliance Selection in the same area as the playing fields. The Alliance
Selection is an important part of the FTC event for both Teams and the audience and should be
presented with as much energy, enthusiasm and professionalism as possible.
Emcee: How about those qualifying matches? Pretty exciting stuff! It’s now time to move onto the
elimination portion of the tournament. But first we have to create four Alliances that will compete to
become the FTC Cascade Effect Champion here in [Insert name of Event].
If 20 or fewer Teams, use this line
Emcee: With [Insert number of Teams] competing today, we will have one selection round, resulting in
four Alliances of two Teams each.
IF 21 OR MORE TEAMS, use this line
Emcee: With [Insert number of Teams] competing today, we will have two selection rounds, resulting in
four Alliances of three Teams each.
The Alliance Selection process is simple: we will create four Alliances with the first pick going to the
Team with the highest ranking from the Qualifying Rounds. After the number one seed makes their
selection, the next highest ranked, unpicked Team will then make their selection.
We continue this process until we have four complete Alliances. The student representative from the
highest ranked Team on an Alliance is that Alliance’s Captain.
After an Alliance Captain extends an invitation to join their Alliance, one representative from the invited
Team will come up and either accept or decline the invitation.
There is only one rule during Alliance Selection. If a Team declines an invitation to become an Alliance
Partner, that Team may not be selected by any other Alliance. The declining Team does not, however,
lose their right to select if they become an Alliance Captain.
For example: if the number one ranked Team picks the number two ranked Team and they decline,
Team two keeps their right to be an Alliance Captain and Team one will need to extend the invitation to
another Team. If Team two accepts the invitation, the all the other Alliance Captains would move up and
then the fifth highest ranked Team becomes a final Alliance Captain.
Throughout the day, Teams have been scouting one another to evaluate strengths, weaknesses and
possible strategies in the elimination rounds. This is where we see the scouting come into play as
Teams decide who to partner with. Each Alliance Captain is looking to make the strongest possible
Alliance to play out the rest of the Tournament with.
Once we have four complete Alliances, we will begin the elimination rounds, which are best two out of
three, with the winner advancing in each round. In the first round, Alliance one will compete against
Alliance four, and two against three. The winners of that round will meet in the Finals, where an FTC
Cascade Effect Champion will be crowned here in [Insert Locale]
22 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Remember, the Captain of the Winning Alliance* receives an invitation to [Insert next level of
Tournament play] (Qualifying Tournaments advance to the State or Regional Championship,
Championship Tournaments advance to the Super-Regionals, and Super-Regionals advance to World
Championship in St. Louis, Mo.).
*In some instances this is not the case. Check with your Tournament Director if you have
questions as to which Teams will advance from your Tournament.
Emcee: There’s a lot on the line here. Let’s meet the Teams!
All Teams have been ranked based on their performance in the Qualification Matches, and it now my
pleasure to introduce the top four ranked Teams of this competition.
Please welcome the number four seed, Team # [Insert Team # and name].
And now please welcome the number three seed, Team # [Insert Team # and name].
And now, the number two seed, Team # [Insert Team # and name].
And finally, our number one seed, Congratulations to Team # [Insert Team # and name].
OK, and now our Number One Seed will make the first pick. Which Team would you like to invite to join
your Alliance?
The Team member would say something like: “Team #xxx would like to invite Team # to be our
Alliance partner.”
If the selected Team is in the top four, and they have the option to decline, the Emcee should ask
the selected Team:
Emcee: ‘Would you prefer to join or form your own Alliance?’
As a Team representative comes up to accept or decline, make sure they speak into the
microphone so the audience can hear. The appropriate response should be: “On behalf of
Team#, we graciously accept (or decline) your invitation.”
After a student accepts, say “Congratulations” and move down to the next Alliance Captain and
repeat the question: “Which Team would you like to select to join your Alliance?”
If #1 chooses Seeds 2, 3 or 4 and they accept the invite, then slide the other Alliance Captains up
and ask the 5th ranked Team’s student representative to join you on the field, putting them into
the Alliance Four spot. Do this for any subsequent selections as well. You should always have
four Alliance Captain spots filled on the field before you move on to ask for the next selection.
If there are over 20 Teams competing: After Alliance Captain Four makes their selection, go back
to Alliance One and begin the process over again for selection of the third Team in the Alliance.
After you have four complete Alliances:
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
| 23
Emcee: Well done. This looks to be an exciting Tournament. Let’s have a round of applause for all the
Teams competing here today. Even if they weren’t selected for the Tournament, all Teams gave it their
best shot. And if your Team is not competing in the Tournament, pick an Alliance to cheer on.
Alliance Captains, please stay for a moment to meet with the Head Referee to review Tournament rules.
We’re going to let the Alliances talk strategy now and prepare for the Elimination Tournament, which will
be starting at [Insert Time]. The Closing Awards Ceremony immediately follows the Elimination
Tournament.
We’ll see you back here to get things started in just a bit – and don’t forget to bring your Gracious
Professionalism - Thanks everyone!
24 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Appendix E – Awards Script
IMPORTANT NOTES:
 Awards MUST be presented in the order listed below.
 While the Emcee is listed in this Script as doing most of the talking, it is recommended that the
Tournament Director, Volunteer Coordinator, guest speakers (especially Sponsors), and Judges
share the speaking responsibilities to make the Ceremony more dynamic, personal, and
meaningful.
 The scripts for the PTC Design Award and the Rockwell Collins Innovate Award are not to be
changed at an Event.
Speaker
Dialogue
Emcee
Welcome to the [Insert Name of Event] FTC Awards and
Closing Ceremony! What an amazing day we’ve had! Before
we hand out our prestigious Awards, let’s thank the awesome
people who made this event happen.
Blocking Notes
Emcee comes to stage.
Our FTC Volunteers are the very best! Please give a big round
of applause for all the volunteers who have given their time and
effort, blood, sweat, and tears to make this program a
stupendous success.
Also today would not be possible without the amazing
generosity of our Official Program Sponsor, Rockwell Collins
and our CAD and Collaboration Sponsor, PTC! Thank you!
Emcee
Speaker
Emcee
Before we hand out the Awards, I would like to introduce you to
our special guest.
Introduce first speaker, include a few personal sentences
describing why the speaker is important to FIRST and our
FIRST Tech Challenge program.
[Brief comments]
If I could please have all of the Judges, Referees, and FTAs
come up front for the presentation of the Awards. Let’s give a
round of applause to our Judges, Refs and FTAs for all of their
expertise, dedication and hard work.
[Introduce Judges and Referees and FTAs]
Emcee
Thank you! And now, on to our Awards.
Judges Award (Optional)
The Judges Award is given at the discretion of the Judges to a
Team they have encountered whose unique efforts,
performance or dynamics merit recognition, yet the Team does
not fit into any of the existing Award categories. Here is what the
Judges have to say about the winner of this Award.
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Speaker comes to stage,
shakes hand. Emcee steps
aside.
Leaves stage. Emcee
comes forward.
Emcee applauds.
Volunteers file onto the
stage, line up at the back.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Emcee
The Judges Award is presented to:
[Insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
Compass Award (Optional)
The Compass Award recognizes an adult coach or mentor who
provided outstanding guidance and support for an FTC Team
throughout the year. The winner of the Compass Award is
determined from candidates nominated by FTC Team members,
via a 40-60 second video submission, highlighting how their
mentor has helped them become an outstanding Team.
The three finalists for the Compass Award are:
Emcee
Emcee
| 25
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
[Insert mentor name, Team numbers, Team names, Team city
and state or province here]
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Emcee
The Compass Award is presented to:
[Insert winning mentor name, Team number, Team name, Team
location]
Emcee
Promote Award (Optional)
The Promote Award is given to the Team that is most successful
in creating a compelling message for the public designed to
change our culture and celebrate science, technology,
engineering and math. The FTC Public Service Announcement
Video was evaluated by the Judges to determine the winner of
this Award. Teams must present a thoughtful and high-quality
video which appeals to the general public.
Emcee
The three finalists for the Promote Award are:
[Insert Team numbers, Team names, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
26 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Emcee
The Promote Award is presented to: [INSERT NAME]
Emcee
Control Award
The Control Award is given to the Team that demonstrates
innovative thinking in the control system to solve Game
challenges such as Autonomous Operation, enhancing
mechanical systems with intelligent control, or using sensors to
achieve better results on the Field.
Emcee
The three finalists for the Control Award are:
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
[Insert Team numbers, Team names, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award:
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Emcee
The Control Award is presented to:
[Insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
Motivate Award
Next we have the Motivate Award. This Judged Award
celebrates the Team that exemplifies the essence of the FIRST
Tech Challenge competition through Team spirit and FIRST
Tech Challenge enthusiasm. This Team shows their spirit
through costumes and fun outfits, a Team cheer or outstanding
spirit, or through their collective efforts to make FIRST known
throughout their school or community.
Emcee
The three finalists for the Motivate Award are:
[Insert Team numbers, Team names, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award:
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Emcee
The Motivate Award is presented to:
[Insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
PTC Design Award (Do not alter script)
The intent of the PTC Design Award is to expand the challenge,
inspiring Teams to incorporate industrial design into their robots.
These elements can be shown in the simplicity of the design as
it applies to the tasks, the look and feel of the robot, and how
the design allows us to think of robots in new ways. The Design
aspect must serve a function – but they should also differentiate
the robot in a unique fashion – not an easy task with a limited
set of parts and game challenge.
Emcee
The three finalists for the PTC Design Award are:
| 27
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
[Insert Team numbers, Team names, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award:
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Emcee
The PTC Design Award is presented to:
[Insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
Rockwell Collins Innovate Award (Do not alter script)
The Rockwell Collins Innovate Award celebrates a Team that
not only thinks outside the box, but also has the ingenuity and
inventiveness to make their designs come to life.
This Award is given to the Team that the Judges feel has the
most Innovative and Creative Robot design solution to the
FIRST Tech Challenge to any or all specific field elements or
components. Elements of this Award include elegant design,
robustness and ‘out of the box’ thinking with regard to design.
This Award may address the design of the whole robot or some
sub-assembly component attached to the robot. The creative
component needs to work consistently, but a robot does not
have to work all of the time during Matches to be considered for
this Award. The Team’s Engineering Notebook showed the
design of the component(s) and the Team’s robot, and
described succinctly how the Team arrived at that solution.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
28 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Emcee
Emcee
The three finalists for the Rockwell Collins Innovate Award are:
[Insert Team numbers, Team names, Team city and state or
province here]
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award:
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Emcee
The Rockwell Collins Innovate Award is presented to:
[Insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
Connect Award
Our next Award, The Connect Award, is presented to the Team
that the Judges’ feel most connected with their local community
and the engineering community. The best Team is more than
the sum of its parts, and recognizes that their schools and
communities play an essential part to their success. The
recipient of this Award is recognized for helping the community
understand FIRST, the FIRST Tech Challenge, and the Team
itself. In addition, the Team that wins this Award is aggressively
seeking engineers and exploring the opportunities available in
the world of engineering, science and technology.
Emcee
The three finalists for the Connect Award are:
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
[Insert Team numbers, Team names, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award:
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Emcee
The Connect Award is presented to
[insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
Think Award
The Think Award is given to the Team that the Judges feel best
understood the role of the engineering notebook in the design
process. The Engineering Notebook is the key reference for
Judges to help them identify the most deserving Team. This
Team’s Engineering Notebook focused on the design and build
stages of the Team’s robot and exemplified their journey as a
team and engineers.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Emcee
| 29
The three finalists for the Think Award are:
[Insert Team numbers, Team names, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award:
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Emcee
The Think Award is presented to:
[Insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
Finalist Alliance
Ladies and Gentlemen, we will now recognize the winners of the
competition you watched over the course of the day.
Emcee
Our Finalist Alliance:
[Introduce Captain of the Finalist Alliance, Team number, Team
name and Team location]
Emcee
[After Captain Team is presented their trophy, introduce first
Team picked on Finalist Alliance, Team number, Team name
and Team location]
Emcee
[After first Team picked is presented their trophy, introduce
second Team picked on Finalist Alliance, Team number, Team
name and Team location]
Emcee
Our Winning Alliance:
[Introduce Captain of the Winning Alliance, Team number, Team
name and Team location]
Emcee
[After Captain Team is presented their trophy, introduce first
Team picked on Winning Alliance, Team number, Team name
and Team location]
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), all
three Teams pose for an
Alliance photo, all Teams
leave stage.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
30 | FIRST Tech Challenge Emcee and Game Announcer Manual
Emcee
[After first Team picked is presented their trophy, introduce
second Team picked on Winning Alliance, Team number, Team
name and Team location]
Emcee
The Inspire Award
The Inspire Award is given to the Team that the Judges felt truly
embodied the ‘challenge’ of the FTC program. This Team
serves as an inspiration to what this program, and the young
minds involved, can accomplish. The Team that receives this
Award has performed well in all Judging categories and was
chosen by the Judges as a model FIRST Tech Challenge Team.
The Judges used Match performance, observations made
during interviews and in the pit area, the Team’s Engineering
Notebook, and performance on the playing field in determining
the winner.
Emcee
The Third Place Inspire Award Winner is:
[Insert Team number, Team name, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
The Second Place Inspire Award Winner is:
[Insert Team number, Team name, Team city and state or
province here]
Emcee
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), all
three Teams pose for an
Alliance photo, all Teams
leave stage.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
Here is what the Judges have to say about the winner of this
Award
[INSERT JUDGES’ COMMENTS HERE]
Emcee
The First Place Inspire Award is presented to:
[Insert winning Team number, Team name, Team location]
Emcee
Families and friends, thank you all for being a great audience
today! Students, thank you for bringing your Gracious
Professionalism to the competition today! We had a really great
event and are looking forward to seeing you all next year!
Team comes forward,
high-5s Volunteers,
receives Award/Medals,
poses for photo(s), leaves
stage.
Everyone leaves the stage.