Worlds in Houston Texas

What an incredible trip that our team had to Houston, Texas for World’s.  11 students and 3 mentors were able to fly down and participate in the competition. ​

Day 1 of the competition we did not lose a match! However our luck did not hold for Day 2 and we finished the qualification matches in 31st place out of 75 teams after we suffered a few technical difficulties including a battery becoming detached.  We did not get picked for playoffs which was a bit disappointing, but we were pleased with how we had played.  

Back home in Elmira, the remaining 34 students acted as scouts as we live streamed the Archimedes field all day in the library.  Parents supported the team with food and mentors also came to cheer on 4917 as a group.

To put into perspective the experience that the traveling students had, here are a few quotes:

“Having the opportunity to meet and work with students from around the world and experiencing so many different cultures who all share a passion for technology and making a difference has reminded me that we live in a small world and can find common ground with anyone. As the team Driver, I had the privilege to meet and discuss strategy with other teams including those from the Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Taiwan, Mexico, China, Turkey, Israel and more.” 
Hudson Jantzi - Driver, Build team

“I have had the opportunity to talk to judges at competitions which has made me a lot more comfortable presenting to other people. I have gotten the opportunity to learn various valuable skills such as programming, accounting, presenting, and fundraising. The community of this team has made an impact on my life and it has given me a community I didn't have before and has provided long lasting friendships.”
Megan Sims - Software, Business & Marketing

“Our time there was an emotional rollercoaster from our highest highs in going undefeated on Day One to our lowest lows to the breaking down of our bot on Day Two. That in conjunction with a trip to NASA, eating authentic Mexican food, playing Catan, visiting closed parks, and getting stuck in the hotel elevator - this was certainly a trip I will never forget!”
Elijah Lanford - human player, Build

“Robotics is only a small part of what happens on our team, so much of it is working on yourself and helping others, this all creates lifelong friendships.”  
Brandon Hall - operator, business & marketing

“Worlds has to be one of my favourite ever experiences; It was absolutely unreal to see the world’s best FRC robots and how they work in person, and I’ve come home super excited to see what the team can do next season. The trip was constantly entertaining, and I’ve made friends out of people I might have otherwise never taken the time to know.”
Joshua Przychodzki - CAD team

We cannot thank the mentors, sponsors and parents enough for making this incredible journey with us.  This season has created a lifetime of memories.