Askey's team also seemed to give the Whittier team respect. They spoke of the competition as a learning experience.

"We learn a lot from tournaments about our robots and other teams," said senior Tim Ashley, 18, programmer. "We look at what they build."

Fellow senior Franziska Landes, 17, historian agreed with Ashley and added that teams like Whittier help them prepare for the national tournament.

"I enjoy seeing the other teams," she said. "They give us different ideas."

They might need every idea and concept as they prepare for the national competition in Hawaii. The team is thinking of constructing two new robots for the June tournament, but first they have to practice there sales pitch. Traveling to Hawaii will be expensive.

"All we are doing now is trying to raise money," Askey said. "Most of the national teams have corporate sponsorship. What we need is a couple of big donors."

Askey is serious about the fundraising effort. He has promised to shave his head the night of graduation if the students can raise $2,500.

"I told them I wouldn't cut my hair until May for this," he said.

Scissors are about the only danger to Askey's hair. He has faith in his team in both fundraising and winning championships.

"These guys work better when the pressure is on ... when their backs are to the wall," he said. "And we have the smartest robots this year than we ever had."

If there is stress on the team, it's not showing. NHS has assumed the "We've been there before." If they raise enough money to make it to Hawaii, Askey has promised it won't all be work. That has his team feeling pretty good.

"It's not important if we win," Ashley said. "It would be cool if we did, but it's about fun."

This may be the last time NHS has that luxury. Whittier's near knockout has started something.

"The word has gotten out," Bevers said. "The students are asking about Botball because of the success. I'm excited for next year. They better look out."

Tony Pennington