GEARS was abuzz with excitement as it hosted the GEARS/Concord Qualifying FLL Tournament, showcasing the brightest minds in robotics from across the region.
Holy Legos Batman (Team 18067) stole the show, clinching the prestigious Champions Award, demonstrating not just technical prowess but also a commendable spirit of teamwork and innovation. Hot on their heels, Submarine Sandwiches (Team 26188) earned the Champions Award Finalist, proving that creativity and strategy go hand in hand.
The Core Values Award went to Galactic Turtles (Team 66154), highlighting their commitment to the foundational principles of FIRST LEGO League – gracious professionalism, and cooperation.
In the realm of innovation, Jimmie Sharks (Team 30973) took home the Innovate Project Winner, showcasing a project that could very well be the next big thing in robotics.
Pirates of the Caribbean (Team 7706) navigated through the competition with their impressive robot design, earning them the Robot Design Award. Meanwhile, on the performance track, Holy Legos Batman doubled down on their success, securing 1st Place in Robot Performance, followed by Submarine Sandwiches in 2nd, and Lightning Chickens (Team 66459) electrifying the crowd with a 3rd Place finish.
The unsung heroes of the event were also celebrated. Dave Brodzinski was honored with the Volunteer Award for his tireless efforts in supporting the event. Ryan Edgar from Pirates of the Caribbean was recognized with the Coach/Mentor Award, acknowledging his pivotal role in mentoring future innovators.
Peer recognition is always special, and Robocats Blue (Team 12596) won the Peer Award, voted on by their fellow competitors. The Rising Star Award shone brightly on Lightning Chickens, marking them as a team to watch in the future. Lastly, the Motivate Award was awarded to Patriotic Krill (Team 32418), for their ability to inspire others in the spirit of FIRST.
This tournament not only highlighted the technical skills of young engineers but also the values of teamwork, creativity, and community involvement. Here’s to the future of robotics, where every young mind has the potential to change the world, one LEGO brick at a time!
