Our excitement for the 2024 VEX Ontario Provincial Championship was quickly overshadowed by an unfortunate incident. We were participating in an impromptu scrimmage, enjoying seeing old friends when suddenly the Event Partner (EP), CanSteam, stormed to our field, shouting at the top of his lungs for us to stop as Opening Ceremony was about to start. Even as we try to drive our robots back to us, he kept shouting and shouting. His rage and anger was visible and we were left feeling afraid. Once competition began, we quickly learn that participants at this event no longer have the right to advocate for themselves and challenge any improper referee calls. Head Referees at the event, trained by the EP, cited rule , “Head Referees have ultimate and final authority on all gameplay ruling decisions during the competition”, so they can hasten the matches and not give us a fair opportunity to make our case, listen to our point of view and clarify any inaccuracies or misinterpretation of the rules. With our voice taken away, we were left to accept unjust calls or face dire consequences.
After the competition ended, we saw multiple teams crying and complaining about the treatment they sustained from event staff. After asking ,
After asking around, it became evident that our experiences were not isolated incidents. Many teams shared stories of being rushed through their matches without the opportunity to properly address concerns or clarify rules. It was clear that the aggressive enforcement of rule by the Head Referees, under the direction of the Event Partner, created an environment where participants felt powerless and marginalized.
These incidents are stark reminders of the need for fair treatment and respectful conduct at these events for all. EP’s and RECF Representatives should not be above the rules. The VEX Ontario Provincial Championship should be a platform where children can compete fairly without fear of unjust treatment, favoritism or retribution by Event Partners.