Thursday, March 5, 2009

To me, this kid best sums up what FIRST is all about. He exemplifies gracious professionalism, especially in defeat. His team had an amazing robot, and their team performed well throughout the competition. Even though they came up short in the final match, it was evident that they excelled at every level this year.

FIRST doesn't just tell kids, "You can do anything when you grow up." FIRST actually helps these kids prove it to themselves. They get hands-on experience tackling a complicated challenge, learning through trial and error, and gaining skills needed in the workplace and in life.

FIRST is the only high school competition where everyone who participates can actually go pro...whether in engineering, mathematics, programming, marketing, psychology, or even as professional mascots (I'm talking to you Mr. Viking).

Most importantly, FIRST gives them confidence, and that is something that can only be achieved by learning from experience, "Hey, I really can do anything when I grow up."


Rhode Warriors


Just a tad enthusiastic about their 2nd straight victory in the BAE Systems Granite State Regional FIRST Robotics Competition. I'd say anyone looking for an alliance team member in Atlanta should consider this team.

Stayin' Alive. Stayin' Alive.

Celebrations on the floor

More drama. Can you feel it?



Tiebreaker match.

We've got the spirit, yes we do...


Kind of speaks for itself.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

the tension builds...

Getting closer to a champion...

FIRST Kickoff video



This video is out of sequence with the rest of the blog, but to spice things up a bit, take a look at the FIRST Kickoff video. In case you missed it, here's the video courtesy of BAE Systems Communications Services team...

Another match on the way to the finals...

Dean Kamen, a spray bottle, and innovation on the fly


Unfortunately, a few of the teams competing this year had to deal with some unforeseen frustrations on the playing field. After a full day of robots blazing across the specially designed floor, a bit of static electricity seems to have built up on and around the field. In this clip, Dean Kamen, FIRST Guru and Innovation Poobah, explains why it's always handy to have a spray bottle around --and it's not just for threatening your Chief of Staff!

More matches on the way to the finals

If you check out the opening seconds, you'll notice this machine is meant to excell(erate) with a turbo fan. Perfect for a demolition derby. Nice!

The fan has a fan

Green Mohawks never go outta style...

The walk back to the pit...

High 5s all around

Trying to get to the finals...