How to Start an FTC Team

Starting an FTC team may seem like a daunting task, but by following these four steps and utilizing the resources found on this page, it is a very manageable process.

• Build your Team - Teams are made up of students, grades 7-12, who are ready to take on the challenges applying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics concepts to robotics. Gather team members (FTC recommends a team size of about 10 students, with a limit of 15) from your school and/or community. 
   

• Register your Team - Once you have gathered your team, go to the Registration section for details on cost, budgeting and instructions on how to register your team. Once your Team is registered, have your students register in the Youth Team Member Registration System.
   

• Enlist additional Coaches and Mentors - Every FIRST Team is required to have two adult Mentors/Coaches who have passed the FIRST background screening process. Learn more about this requirement at the FIRST Youth Protection Program web page.  
  
  In FTC, the terms Coach and Mentor are used interchangeably to describe an adult team member (18+) who leads students by example. Mentors are expected to practice Gracious Professionalism® and act as positve role models for the team. Coaches and Mentors need not be technical. Non-technical Mentors can help with organization, provide snacks, transport youths and provide moral support. Parents and teachers make excellent Mentors and Coaches.
   

• Get Started - Review the materials on the FIRST website and, if possible, attend events like a kick-off, workshops and scrimmages. You will also find the following pages very helpful:

  • The Game Page - Learn about the annual challenge, robot build rules and what to expect at competition

  • Team Resources - Tools and resources to get you through the season

  • The FTC Kit of Parts - Learn about our two robotics kits

  • Season Timeline and Calendar - This page will help you understand the flow of the season and know when your team should meet certain benchmarks

  • FTC Event Finder - Use this tool to find FTC events near you

  • FTC Awards - Learn about the Awards Teams earn both on and off the competition field