House (Training) Squad Idea (Training & Stuff)

[SlipKnt]

Considering what AH3 has done for me, I want to see if I can give back to the community more (beyond the scope of being a CM).

This is mainly me asking HiTech & Skuzzy for thought, consideration, and hopefully permission to attempt to create a "House Squad" in the MAs under the AH3 name.

Conduct from the officers and staff of this house squad would be no different than the rules used for being a CM.  In that we must be beyond reproach.  I am not asking for, nor would I ever, for any type of admin rights to the MAs.  I am only mentioning this to be clear that is not intent.

Intent is to assist new players to the next element of the game and to promote growth from within.  A developmental aspect to extend beyond the 2 week period and focus on retention of the newer players.

The idea is to teach basics in bombing, attack, fighter, GV, CV, BB, and base taking 101.  This is an introduction to working with and as a team. 

This would be set up for those that participate in the training arena learning the game (or new comers not going to the TA).  When they are ready for the MA, we can place them in a house squad to learn some of the ins and outs of the MA and even FSO.  Only if they are interested.  And I would ask the trainers to encourage new players  joining the house squad.

In the forums, could we create a new area called "For New Players".  This would draw the newer players to the page to inform them such a squad exists and would be willing to help them.

In the MA:
1.  We would rotate the squad thru each country every week.  So beginning Monday morning, the squad "flag" would start Knight, then next Monday, Bishop, then Rook, then Knight...   etc...

2.  I would post structured missions.  Anything from fighter sweeps, attack missions, bomber missions, etc...  This would serve as a sort of mentorship and eventually teach them how to post and run missions.

3.  By rotating to the different countries, they get to meet the community and eventually move on to join some of the squadrons we have in game.

In FSO:
1.  Rotate each month between Axis & Allies

2.  Set up as a 2-4 sized squad (but allow us to go over or under to bring walk-ons over)

3.  Teach and promote planning in the days leading up to FSO and give them the full experience of FSO

4.  Ability to be recruited to a FSO squad

I would also like some input from the community on this to see what y'all think.

I am also looking for ideas of what to name the squad.

"Aces High MA Training Squad(ron)"
"AH3 MA Training Squad(ron)"
"Main Arena Training Squad(ron)"
"FSO Training Squad(ron)"
"AH3 FSO Training Squad(ron)"

I think I personally like having two squadrons (one for each (MA/FSO))

My vote would be:
MA = Main Arena Training Squadron
FSO = FSO Training Squadron


Thoughts?

[oboe]

Cool idea, might be much appreciated by new guys.  It sounds to me a lot like an Operational Training Squadron.

[SlipKnt]

Cool idea, might be much appreciated by new guys.  It sounds to me a lot like an Operational Training Squadron.

Exactly!  Something squads can recruit from too. 

[100Coogn]

Wish there was something like this when I started.

+1

Coogan

[Bubrubb]

This is a great idea I for one would join. My friend and I have been aying for 3 days now and having a blast! I feel completely lost in a fighter would love real training YouTube and Google only go so far.

[Puma44]

Outstanding idea! I like your two squad names mentioned at the end. One of the biggest aggravations encountered when I was brand new to the game was the lack of new guy training in the MAs.  There were very few players that would take the time to teach the “how to” techniques.  Some of the players who where exceptional seemed reluctant to pass on any secret techniques.  So, learning as a newb was more of a hunt and peck situation, and quite frustrating.

I hope HiTech and company support your idea.   

[Max]

Great concept Slip 

It took me forever just to get a plane off the runway, let alone figure out the radio, .commands, hangar configs, etc. Luckly I ran across a player (trainer as well) named Ghosth, who took me under his wing for a few weeks.

I wish you success. Let me know if I can help! Hopefully HTC will green light this project and support you 100%

[1ijac]

Good idea slip.   Let me know if I can help in any way.

One-eye   

[SlipKnt]

I suppose naming it "Main Arena Training Squadron" doesn't infringe on naming rights of "HiTech" or "Aces High".  I would like to see if HiTech would endorse this or simply give me their blessing to move forward.  I may ask for a forum spot (no special access needed) or something on the webpage advertising the existence of a Main Arena Training Squadron after I experiment with this and fine tune it.  Maybe 6 to 12 months away...

My time frame to begin is (seriously) within 2 weeks.   
I am closing on my house this Friday.  I need to get moved and settled in before I commit.  I estimate 1 to 2 weeks then I can be fully active in this new adventure.


I am discussing with the FSO CM staff regarding setting up something in FSO.  Hopefully that materializes.

So here is my proposal...

1.  Set up, "Main Arena Training Squadron"
2.  Ask all AH Training Staff and veteran players to encourage new players come to me to run around with in the MAs.
3.  I have a volunteer already in Kenai77.  He will be my co-commander in the MAs
4.  Membership in this training squad will last 3 to 6 weeks (1 to 2 full rotations thru the countries)
    a.  As long as the new player wants or needs
    b.  If the member doesn't want to switch countries when I move the squad flag, membership is over
    c.  I will keep a sharp eye on members and maintain the roster
5.  Advertise here, Squadrons, and AH General Discussion
6.  Set established times for squad activity and run structured and posted missions
7.  Recruit a few other veteran players in Europe, Australia, and West Coast of USA to potentially have Leaders readily available as often as possible

All I need to know is if there are ANY cons to this I haven't thought of that could negatively impact the game in general. 

Thoughts?

 
SlipKnoT

 

[SlipKnt]

Official Name:

"MA (Volunteers) Training Group"

[morfiend]

I hope you have fun doing this,it should be fun it's a game.


  If you have need of a trainer I'm usually in the TA most week nights between 9pm and 11 pm est. I'd be glad to help with anything from controller setups to BFM/ACM.

  The only condition is that it's in the TA as it's setup to make teaching easier.



   

[pembquist]

I think if you did pick up missions in the MA as a squad you would have the critical mass attractant to get people into pick up missions. Pick up missions would be great for new players as well as old. Ask for new players to join especially, no pressure.

[1stpar3]

I think if you did pick up missions in the MA as a squad you would have the critical mass attractant to get people into pick up missions. Pick up missions would be great for new players as well as old. Ask for new players to join especially, no pressure.

Absolutely! If not for "Those mission guys" I would still be floundering aimlessly! Posted missions would probably do WONDERS to the MA environment as a whole! It's always been more fun with missions going on,for myself anyway! So + 1000 for my vote

[SlipKnt]

Thanks for the support. 

I set the squad up in the MA.  I have the green light for FSO also.  We will make our first FSO appearance in July.

Please spread the word.  I'll make a strong appearance starting next week.  After I get moved and settled into my new house over the weekend. 

I'll figure out for sure times and make a daily schedule. 

Thanks all for the support. 

[Mongoose]

  I think it's a good idea.  As an alternative, you could hold weekly classes on different subjects.  One week do basic ACM.  Next week do formation flying.  Next week do basic ground attack for fighters.  Etc.