Two alliances of three teams each compete on a 27' x 54' field with bumps attempting to earn points by collecting soccer balls in their goals. Additional bonus points are earned for each robot not touching the field at the end of the match. 

 

Robots may not possess more than one ball at a time, but they may herd and kick multiple balls at a time. Balls must remain in contact with the floor while in robot’s possession. Alliances must return scored balls to the field quickly. Only one robot at a time is permitted to play defense in front of the opponent’s goals. 

 

Sponsored by NASA, Needham, Mass.-based PTC, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute, the FRC Kickoff event is an opportunity for teams competing in the season to see the new game challenge and rules first-hand. Teams across the nation and in Canada and Israel watched the proceedings via NASA-TV broadcast or Web cast from 57 local Kickoff sites, many of which also offered workshops and a chance to meet other teams.