LUMBERTON — The PSRC Early College RobCoBots team completed an exhilarating season of robotics competitions, earning multiple awards and accolades and ending the season in the top 15 teams across the state.
The team brought home the Judges Award from the FIRST North Carolina FRC State Championship in Greenville, NC.
“So we made it to the Playoffs at the State Championship Competition as Alliance #2 Captains but we didn't make it to finals,” said Deddi West, a Lead Mentor for the RobCoBots.
“We did take home the Judge's Award but it still wasn't enough to push us to Worlds. We were a mere nine points shy of qualifying,” she added.
The team also brought home the Spirit Award from the March 22-24 competition in Mecklenburg and was a 2024 Finalist at the UNC Pembroke event held March 6-10.
RobCoBots Lead Mentors John Allen and Deddi West said they are proud of the team’s accomplishments this season.
“We ended the season ranked as #12 of 77 teams in North Carolina,” West said.
“This is our eighth season competing in FIRST Robotics Competitions (FRC). Every year we have seen some form of success from our team. We've won district championships, the prestigious Engineering Inspiration Award and various other awards. Even with all the past accolades, this year has definitely been our most successful year,” Allen said.
Allen and West said they would like to thank all of the sponsors, parents, mentors, supporters and of course the robotics team for a great season! Allen also shared the team’s substantial impact across the PSRC school district this year.
“We’ve created a huge impact in introducing STEM to a large portion of our county through mentoring FTC robotics teams in high schools, LEGO teams in middle schools, STEM expositions, and robot demonstrations around the county. It’s been a very full and exciting year for us and I couldn’t be more proud of the achievements and accomplishments of the members of the team,” Allen added.
PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson congratulated the team on a great season.
“We are very proud of the RobCoBots and their successful season,” Dr. Williamson said.
“We hope that these students will continue to hone their skills as they work with STEM through the PSRC Early College Robotics Program. Students, I challenge you to take lessons like the importance of teamwork and collaboration with you as you continue your education and as you prepare for your future careers. Congratulations on a successful season,” he added.
“Keep your eyes on us,” Allen said. “We’re only going to get better.”
