Allegations of match throwing
Detroit FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship
Match 172
The investigation into an allegation of a FIRST Tech Challenge team intentionally competing poorly in match 172 of the Edison Division at the Detroit World Championships is concluded. The investigation included video review, social media review, and interviews of teams both directly and indirectly around the alleged incident. Those engaged in the process included FIRST staff and key volunteers in addition to teams who participated in the FIRST Tech Challenge Detroit World Championships.
The central evidence of match 172 being thrown was contained in a video posted, and then removed, from social media by an individual not in attendance at the event. The video included match 172 footage with images overlaid of group chat texts which seemed to indicate the match was thrown for the benefit of one of the group chat posters.
The team accused of throwing the match was not involved in these text messages and claims no part in conversations, texts, or other communication on this topic. Our investigations found no evidence of such communications. Their performance in match 172 was the result of a robot not fully operational from earlier damage. The team also entered match 172 near the bottom of the qualification rankings and was primarily interested in finishing out the event.
The group chat text messages cited in the referenced video were made in poor humor, did not reflect Gracious Professionalism, and did not include collusion with the accused team. The messages were exchanged at a time when competitive emotions can run high, and this incited further reactions that were also ill-advised.
While these messages do not demonstrate the values and ethos of the FIRST community, we do not believe they justify changing rankings or otherwise changing Championship results from the FIRST Tech Challenge Detroit World Championships.
Social media is a central part in almost everyone�s lives and serves a key role in FIRST. It connects people, works as a medium for sharing important information, and can be wonderful enabler for finding help and/or answers. Social media can also be used to stir up emotions, allege all manner of theories, and become a vehicle for bullying. Applying the FIRST ethos in all forms of communications is essential.
We believe that FIRST and our community should learn from this the importance of fair play, Gracious Professionalism, and honest communication. Without these core tenants the value of accomplishments in all forms can be diminished, and that helps no one.
Our annual review of game and scoring rules will consider the tie breaker point system and penalties for teams throwing matches, however it is our community that defines us. We ask that you continue to uphold the values of FIRST and not accept anything less from your teammates and your competitors.
FIRSTcongratulates all teams who engage in our programs, including the ones who competed at the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championships. Be proud of your accomplishments and work to help ensure all in our community understand the values of FIRST through demonstrating them in all that you do.
Sincerely,
Ken Johnson
Director, FIRST Tech Challenge