FIRST Robotics Competition

FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC): High school students on teams typically ranging from thirty to fifty members work with adult coaches and mentors to design, build, and program a robot to compete in a specific game, announced each January. The team has six weeks to construct a robot using a uniform kit of parts given to every team, commercial off-the-shelf components, and any parts they fabricate. The completed robot must fit within a 38" by 28" frame and weigh no more than 120 pounds. Besides the robot competition, the team competes for other awards, such as the Safety, Spirit, and Engineering Innovation awards. At FIRST competitions, the most prestigious honor is the Chairman's Award. Some schools report that participation in FRC boosts graduation and college enrollment rates.

Many members of Blue Cheese Robotics consider the FRC build and competition season their favorite part of the year. Working towards a common goal brings students closer as a team and expands their skills and knowledge. The team is immensely proud of its FRC robot and uses it in demonstrations after the build season as a tool for outreach and education. Many teams, including Blue Cheese Robotics, operate year-round.

How can my child join an FRC team?
FIRST is more than robots! To find or start another team, check out the resources on the FIRST Inspires website. They offer detailed information and contacts at the local and national levels to answer your questions. If you attend Deep Run High School, you can join Blue Cheese. Talk to Coach Wilson in room H-12.