2024 Midwest Regional Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks for joining us at the 2024 FIRST Robotics Competition at UIC's Credit Union 1 Arena (525 S Racine Avenue, Chicago).

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• Event Agenda
• Match Schedule, Standings & Results (opens in new tab)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there a charge for admission? No - the event is free and open to the public.
• Is there Wi-Fi available? No - there is no public or guest Wi-Fi. Please do not activate hotspots as they will interfere with the competition and may delay the event.
• Where is the lost & found?
  • You can turn in "found" items to any volunteer - we prefer you take items directly to Pit Admin or the Volunteer Coordinator near the main entrance if possible.
  • "Lost" items can be claimed from the Volunteer Coordinator / Information Desk near the venue's main entrance. 
• Where can I work or make a private phone call? We do not have a room for private calls or Zoom meetings. There is a Starbucks located 1/2 mile away at 1430 W. Taylor.
• Is there a Quiet Room? A quiet room will be available on Friday and Saturday, pending volunteer availability. Please contact Karina or Jen at the information table for more information.
  • The Quiet Room is not intended for team discussions, work calls, or other activity. It is a place to rest and take a break from the arena. Thank you for your cooperation.
• Can we sit in the balcony? The balcony will be open on Friday and Saturday after opening ceremonies, pending volunteer availability.
  • The only sections open for seating in the balcony: 206, 207, 211, and 212.
  • Do not remove or walk around caution tape. It's there for a reason.
  • Please be careful not to disturb the A/V equipment installed in these areas.
  • No food or drinks (including water) are permitted in the balcony.
• Can I bring food into the venue? No - Per venue policy, outside food and beverage are not allowed.
• Can I bring a water bottle or other drinks? You may bring an empty water bottle to fill inside the arena. Please do not bring any other drinks.
• What should I wear? If you plan to visit the pits, please wear closed-toe shoes. We also recommend bringing your own safety glasses, as we have limited loaner sets.
• Can I take pictures? Yes - photography and videos are strongly encouraged!
• Can we use 3D printers? 3D printers can be operated only when the pits are open (no overnight runs).
• What if our team does not want a pit table? Please move unused pit tables to the machine shop area for storage.
• Where can I pick up team lunches? Lunches will be distributed near Gate 2. From the main entrance, facing the volunteer tables, head to the right on the main concourse.
• Where is critical safety equipment (fire extinguishers, AEDs, etc.) located? Maps with information about safety equipment are posted on the walls outside restrooms on the main concourse.
• Is there a location for religious practice (e.g. meditation, prayer)? Yes, please check with the Volunteer Coordinators at the Information table.
• Do you have event shirts or other merchandise for sale? No, we do not have souvenirs for sale this year.