2022-23 Robotics Round-Up

Posted: March 8, 2023

It was a weekend filled with challenge, brotherhood, and camaraderie, as two of SAA's robotics teams competed in the regional championship round of their respective divisions.

First up was SAA's FIRST Lego League team, the "RoBuccaneers," who was one of around 60 teams competing at the FLL Central Texas Regional Championship held Saturday, March 4. It was a full day focused on the world of STEM, as students used their robots to code, problem-solve, and perform the competition's missions.

Congratulations to the boys for taking home a robot design award. This award recognizes a team that used outstanding programming principles and solid engineering practices to develop a robot that is mechanically sound, durable, efficient, and highly capable of performing challenge missions.

"The team had a great season, and we will miss our graduating 8th graders very much," said SAA's Robotics Teacher Cathy Baumgartner.

The RoBuccaneers team includes: Charles L., Zain H., Emerson J., Nathan W., Billy B., Gage M., Asher W., Anish M., Silas S., and Luke B.
 

The following day, the SAA "GearHeads" competed at the VEX IQ Texas Region 4 Middle School Championship in Hutto, TX. As SAA's introductory year exploring the world of VEX IQ robotics, the boys have been doing a great job competing in this division. They qualified after performing particularly well on the "skills challenge" portion of the competition at January's Frosty Qualifier.

"Our rookie team was extremely fortunate to have qualified in this tournament against many seasoned veteran teams," said Mrs.Baumgartner.

While they may not have made it past this round of the competition, they all had a fantastic time, made new friends, and are ready and excited to continue next year.

The GearHeads team includes Josiah O., Ford A., Holden D., and Peter Z.

Thank you to our robotics teachers, Cathy Baumgardner and Tyna Powers, for all the endless hours of dedication and guidance with our boys to get them this far. A big shout-out to all the parents and volunteers for their time, effort, and support as well.