The Drive Team is a designated group of team members responsible for operating and aiding the robot during matches. Only two students are aloud to operate the robot during a match, but many others aid the robots operation in other ways.
The Drive Team also serves other roles critical to the competition but not directly related to the match. For example, Drive Teams must be familiar with the game rules and field, as they're often involved in pre-match strategic planning and post-match review. During the match, drive team members must be able to communicate and operate effectively to utilize the robot to the highest potential. Additionally, drive team members serve as leaders to the rest of the team, and are the most visible parts of the team, requiring them to serve as positive role models and representatives to the team and everyone at the event.
There are many roles that constitude a Drive Team, differing between programs slightly. However, regardless of the role and specific composition, each role is essential to a smooth and effective competition for every team. Effective drive team members work not only through skill, but collaberation, stratagy, and critical communication.