1. Tips for Competitors (10 sec increments)

2. Think Like a Winner l Develop a systematic approach to solve problems. l Put forth a consistent effort geared to all events, but weighted according to the scoring. l The team must manage human dynamics. l Individuals must learn mental discipline.

3. Plan Like a Winner l Locate sponsors immediately. Without funding, it is difficult to be innovative. l Request top design reports and adopt each school’s most innovative ideas. l Read the rules, narrow options, and begin the formal design process. l Discuss ideas for theme, hull design, construction, display, and presentation. l Experiment with concrete mix designs.

4. Showcase Your Design l Have your Design Report reviewed by a technical writer. There is no excuse for spelling/grammar errors! l Use your theme to touch all aspects of the competition. l Be creative as you can within the limits imposed on the Display and Oral Presentation.

5. Practice Like a Winner l Fall: technique and style –Paddle at least 2-3 times per week. –Add weight training for added strength. l Spring: constant, aggressive training –Practice every day for at least two hours (weather permitting). –Cross-train with running or paddling intervals for added endurance. –Hold tryouts to determine who gets to race.

6. Compete Like a Winner l Work as a team and be helpful to other teams. l Strive to perform your personal best. l Look for something innovative that each school has done and compliment them. l Be good sports in and out of the water.

7. Lessons Learned l Repeat performers are judged more harshly than newcomers. l Realize that life (and the concrete canoe competition) is not always fair. l Despite complex rules and good intentions, judging will be subjective. l Remember, it’s only a game; and, the real winners are those who have done their very best to compete.