Our Rookie season has now officially ended. We've had our post-season parent meeting and just recently formed an Advisory Board of mentors, parents and volunteers to help guide the team moving forward. As we conclude one year and look forward to the next, here are a few things our team members have learned.

Sometimes the immediate feedback we get when we tell people the length of the build season is, "Wow! Six weeks? That's a lot of time!" It's really not, and in order to create a fully functional robot with correct coding and testing, you must balance the time given and be as efficient as possible. Make sure you've got your priorities straight from day one. It's hard on the team if you're away for sports or not keeping up with your grades and can't help out when needed. Get involved in what's happening. If you want to be a programmer, but seem lost, this is the perfect opportunity to learn. At competition, always remember to be respectful to all teams at all times. Like you, they've worked long hours and poured a lot of effort into their robot. You'll find that teams are looking out for you, even if you're going against them at some point! Sportsmanship is put above rivalry. If you need help or have a question, all you have to do is ask.
~ Alexis M. (Student)
~ Alexis M. (Student)

During the robotics season I learned a few things. I learned that I didn't have to know anything about robotics to be able to help out. That it isn't as easy as it looks, build a robot and compete, that's kind of the the whole thing. Well that's not true, there's so much more to it. Friendship...that was a major props besides building an amazing robot. A few words to other rookie teams for next year, if you work hard then you should look forward to doing great and having fun. Competitions are CRAZY FUN, definitely doing this for the rest of high school!
~ Autumne P. (Student)
~ Autumne P. (Student)

"It is extremely difficult to describe FIRST and what it's like to be apart of this culture. The only way is go and feel it for yourself."
~ Wayne W. (Mentor)
~ Wayne W. (Mentor)

"We learned time and effort with lots of teamwork means we can accomplish anything."
~ Cody M. (Student)
~ Cody M. (Student)