Answered: Driver preload star clarification

[n5vei]

I read the rules and it says that you MUST use the preload star. I was at a tournament recently where that was not enforced. I am about to host one this weekend and will enforce it, but I have a question.

If a team refuses to use it… I assume it will count against you, but I need clarification and how will it count against the team?
Thanks in advance
Bill R.

[Karthik]

I read the rules and it says that you MUST use the preload star.

This is correct.

If a team refuses to use it…

If a team refuses to use their Preload, they are in violation of <SG2>

<SG2> Prior to the start of each Match, each Robot must use its one (1) Star available as a Preload. A Star is considered to be legally preloaded if it is touching the Robot, not touching any other grey foam tiles, and is fully within the field perimeter. (See figures 8 & 9) If a Robot is not present for their Match, their Star will be placed randomly on their Alliance Starting Tile.

The team should be removed from the field and the Star should be placed randomly on their Alliance Starting Tile.

Thus, it is clearly in the best interest of Robots to use their Preload.