Training & Preparation
Training requirements vary by volunteer position. Some roles require certifications, online training, or advance preparation, while others provide training and guidance at the event.
Volunteers should:
- Review any materials for their assigned role
- Complete any required certifications or training
- Review event communications and updates
- Familiarize themselves with information about the Championship including competition locations and event agenda.
Role Specific Training
Please review the training information for your assigned volunteer role using the tabs below.
Emcees need to like being on the microphone. They will be responsible for providing play-by-play during matches and being able to create a fun and entertaining environment for all.
Experience Level: Advanced – Previous Experience Required
Preparation
Successful emcees typically:
- Review the current season’s game rules and scoring methods.
- Become familiar with event schedules and announcements.
- Learn basic game terminology and match flow.
- Practice speaking clearly, confidently, and enthusiastically.
Key Expectations
Emcees should:
- Maintain a positive and professional demeanor.
- Support a welcoming and student-focused environment.
- Work closely with referees, scorekeepers, queuers, and event leadership.
- Keep commentary neutral and avoid coaching or directing teams during matches. Refrain from making comments that imply a Head Referee will make a specific judgement call.
- Help keep the event running on schedule.
- Report factual information.
Event setup volunteers assist with preparing the venue prior to the start of the tournament. Responsibilities may include unloading equipment, assembling competition fields, placing signage, arranging tables and chairs, setting up pit areas, and preparing spaces for teams, volunteers, and specators.
Experience Level: Beginner – No Experience Required
Key Expectations
Event setup volunteers should:
- Be prepared for physical activity, including lifting, carrying, and moving equipment.
- Follow directions from event leadership and designated setup leads.
- Assist with assembling and organizing event infrastruture.
- Help ensure competition, judging, and pit areas are ready before teams arrive.
- Work safely and communicate any concerns to event leadership.
Recommended Skills
No prior experience is required. Helpful skills include:
- Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.
- Basic familiarity with competition fields or event equipment.
- Willingness to assist wherever needed.
Additional Notes
Event setup often requires flexibility as priorities may change throughout the day. Volunteers should be prepared to assist with a variety of tasks and support multiple event areas as needed.
Many of the most important event preparations happen before teams arrive. Your efforts ensure a safe, organized, and professional experience for every participant.
Event teardown volunteers assist with tearing down all event equipment after the Championship concludes. Responsibilities may include disassembling competition fields, removing signage, packing equipment, organizing supplies, and loading equipment into trailers.
Experience Level: Beginner – No Experience Required
Key Expectations
Event teardown volunteers should:
- Be prepared for physical activity, including lifting, carrying, and moving equipment.
- Follow directions from event leadership and designated teardown leads.
- Help disassemble and pack event equipment safely and efficiently.
- Return materials to their designated storage locations.
- Work as a team to ensure the venue is left clean and organized.
Recommended Skills
No prior experience is required. Helpful skills include:
- Ability to follow instructions
- Willingness to assist with a variety of tasks
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
- Familiarity with competition equipment and field components
Additional Notes
The end of qualification matches often marks the beginning of teardown activities. We will begin tearing down Skills fields during this time. After the conclusion of the finals matches and awards ceremony, we will tear down the competition areas.
May hands make light work. The efforts of tear-down volunteers help ensure equipment is properly stored and helps teardown go quickly.
Assignment Changes May Occur
Volunteer assignments occasionally change due to event needs. We appreciate your flexibility and willingness to assist where needed to help create a successful experience for students and teams.
Questions?
If you have questions about training requirements, certifications, or your assigned role, please contact the Minnesota VEX Robotics State Championship Event Partner, Katie Frank.