Volunteers needed for high school robotics championship Feb. 23 at ECC
On Saturday, Feb. 23, FIRST Illinois Robotics will hold its state championship robotics tournament from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Elgin Community College, Building J, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. The event is free of charge and open to the public for viewing.
More than 350 Illinois students, age 12 to 17, will compete on the 44 robotics teams that have qualified for the championship.
FIRST is "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology."
The FIRST Tech Challenge Illinois Championship Tournament is an intense two-day event showcasing robots developed and operated by teams of high school students.
The competing robots represent the product of focused brainstorming, real-world teamwork, dedicated mentoring and managing project deadlines.
Participating teams have previously won awards at FTC-qualifying events held throughout the state.
During the competition, two robot teams play each other on fields that are 12 feet by 12 feet in size.
A series of qualifying rounds played between randomly-generated alliance teams determines the top four seeded individual teams.
These top four individual teams will select two additional teams to form an alliance for the elimination rounds.
Late Saturday afternoon starts with the four alliances competing in the semifinal matches, followed by the finals where two alliances vie for the title of winning alliance.
FIRST is seeking volunteers for the day before (Friday, Feb. 22) and the day of the event.
Volunteer positions available include judge, field reset, queuer, practice field monitor, registration, photographer, information desk, Friday afternoon set up or Saturday tear down.
No experience is necessary and training will be provided as needed.
To volunteer, contact FTC-contact@firstillinoisrobotics.org.
Check out the event website at www.firstillinoisrobotics.org/ftc/events/statechampionship.html.
Visit www.firstillinoisrobotics.org to learn more about the FIRST Tech Challenge in Illinois.