Many things set Odyssey of the Mind tournaments apart from other programs. Aside from streams of duct tape and "up-cycled" props, there is one big difference -- smiles! While Odyssey of the Mind is competitive, it also encourages camaraderie in many ways.

Not only do teams become friends with new people within their regions, they become friends with their competitors. Each year there are countless examples of teams helping and supporting fellow competitors in need. Odyssey teams also become important members of their communities, using their creative problem-solving skills to help with their neighbors' challenges.

Having good spirit also means remembering that it's completely normal to be nervous before competition while remaining confidant that you and your teammates have practiced and done your best.

Jim Mourey Jr., OMER's Award recipient, judge, and former participant, has a good explanation of the foundations for the Odyssey spirit that permeates tournaments around the world. "I always consider the three C's: collaboration, character, and of course, creativity. Collaboration implies that each member contributes towards one overall solution, like building a song from different instruments. Character is about being ethical, which includes both being a good colleague along with knowing and appreciating rules. Creativity is at the heart of OotM, and it reminds us that the best solutions need not be the most obvious or straightforward."

The "three C's" can also be applied to judging. Judges must collaborate and work well together just like teams in order to be successful. Aside from consistency and impartiality, judges also have an important job in further showcasing the Odyssey spirit. While it may start with a few crazy hats or funny jokes, it is no less important.

According to Delaware's Association Director and long-time judge, Ron Raab-Long, being open and friendly is one of the most important aspects of judging, "The children have worked for months to develop their solutions. The teams are excited and full of adrenaline. The last thing they need is to step in front of a group of judges that appear bored, sleepy, lost, or worse -- apathetic. That kills their spirit and most assuredly affects their performance."

By simply being friendly and fair, judges can have the satisfaction of knowing that they are encouraging new generations of creative problem- solvers. Their Odyssey spirit will help inspire teams to do their best and in turn, show off their own spirit. "Laugh when appropriate, watch everything carefully, smile sympathetically when something doesn't work, and happily when it does," says Raab-Long.

He also believes that the Staging Area judge has an important role in easing team tensions, "The Staging Area Judges should be ready to joke with the team in a manner appropriate for the division, encourage the team to do its best, let it know that none of the other judges bite, and stand ready to give hugs as required. Most importantly, as in all judging positions, convey to the team that regardless of what happens during the performance, we are all proud of them and appreciate their efforts."

The core principles of Odyssey of the Mind include creative problem-solving, teamwork, competition, and, of course, fun! Both teams and judges are successful if they approach tournaments with this positive Odyssey spirit.