Some students may prefer to train as alternates along with a regular team member . You never can tell when illness will strike. Team members should know that their place on the team is assured only if they are actively cooperating with the training process. A lax team member could be replaced with a more interested alternate. They should, at the time of sign-up or when they fill out an application, list five event choices in order of preference.
Some events involve the construction of a device.
Set realistic deadlines for construction. By having more than one group construct a device, you can insure that there will be a device for the competition. Students should follow a plan so that they know exactly how they made the device. This is helpful if modifications are necessary. Never assign a student to too many events .