Steer clear of bringing something like your brined chicken or any other item that could be misconstrued as a turn in item. If another team were to see you, they might call "foul" and end up with more headaches for your team.
All of there Comp meat would have had to have gone through an inspection process when they started and all of it had to not be pre-rubbed, brined, treated, etc before arriving.
I do like the wings idea which wouldnt be construed as a turn in meat, but with all the teams I know, food is never an issue. I like the bring beer, ice, etc.
If you are just starting with a team that is already established, they have very set times and guidelines for doing stuff. So my .02 is this:
1. Stay out of there way.
2. Offer to clean up after each turn in. Ask them what to do and do it exactly as they say.
3. Clean dirty knives, and replace them exactly where you found them (most teams like a "slicing area" or carving area. Keep the knives and utensils clean.
4. Know the turn in times. 15 minutes before turn in, follow rule #1 to the letter. No talking, just say one time "I am right over here if you need me". Stay "right over there"
5. Once turn in box leaves the area with the runner, Get Cleaning!! Switch out carving boards, clean knives, clean boards, etc. Set back up ASAP, return to #4.
There will be 2 hours of this spanning 4 main categories and 1-2 peoples choice (probably). There will be plenty of time to learn before, get there nice and early, they have been there since Friday afternoon/evening.
Afterwards, help pack up the truck. They are now 2+ days into it, and can use your fresh legs. Most teams are packing early in the week, some need to travel a ways. Your help will come in the most just helping out, not in the cooking itself.
At least, not until you establish yourself as a "team player" and willing to do the dirty job as well as help cook.
Just my .02, but some teams are much more organized and execute a fairly similar game plan comp to comp.
Good luck, and when there is down time, ask plenty of questions!!!
