Merrimack High School Hosts Thrilling FIRST Robotics "Week Zero" Competition
Introduction to an Exciting Season
MERRIMACK, NH – The air was electric at Merrimack High School as the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team, Chop Shop 166, proudly hosted the much-anticipated "Week Zero" competition, officially kicking off the 2025 robotics season. Thirty-two high-school teams from across New England converged at the school, bringing with them their impressive industrial-sized robots to tackle the challenges set on the newly designed REEFSCAPE field. This exciting event set the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating competition season.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Innovation
Founded by New Hampshire inventor Dean Kamen in 1989, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) has nurtured a vibrant community that empowers young individuals through inclusive, team-based robotics programs for students aged 4-18. This nonprofit has evolved into a powerhouse of educational innovation, engaging approximately 92,525 students on over 3,700 teams this year.
Spotlight on the 2025 Game
As anticipation builds, teams are gearing up for an engaging contest that promises to challenge their skills and creativity. The competition, focused on the REEFSCAPE, allows teams to utilize a standard kit of parts announced every January to build their unique robots. These teams then have only six weeks to design, fabricate, and perfect their creations, making "Week Zero" an invaluable opportunity to test their machines under real competition conditions.
Unity Amidst Competition
While labeled a competition, the spirit at "Week Zero" was one of cooperation and camaraderie. Enshrined in the FIRST philosophy, the term “gracious professionalism”, coined by co-creator Dr. Woody Flowers, encapsulates the essence of support and respect that permeates these events. It promotes an environment where teams help each other, exemplifying collaborative spirit in the pursuit of excellence.
Chop Shop 166: A Beacon of Inspiration
Co-captain Shane Gilbert shared his fascination with robotics, which sprouted from childhood experiences attending competitions with mentors who inspired him along the way. His passion was clear as he explained the emphasis on teamwork at the event. “There’s a team today that needed to use our drill press for their bumpers,” he recalled. “We welcomed them to our shop and helped them out. It’s all about collaboration.”
Team Phoenix Shines for Nashua
Representing Nashua at the competition was Team Phoenix, hailing from the Academy for Science and Design. Designated as team number 2342, this public charter team has been contributing to the robotics community since 2006. Mentor Jeff Brockway praised the group of about 50 members, emphasizing that their work extends beyond robotics, encapsulating skills like problem-solving, communication, and effective teamwork.
Skill Building Beyond Robotics
For mentors like Brockway, robotics is more than just building machines. “They learn so many skills,” he stated passionately. “Sure, we build a robot, but we also develop critical skills like communicating with adults and peers, troubleshooting issues, and finding solutions.” The lessons learned in this environment often extend far beyond the realm of robotics, equipping students with tools for life.
A Thriving Community Gathering
The vibrant atmosphere of the competition attracted an enthusiastic crowd, with over 300 spectators filling the stands. They observed the gripping series of challenges and heats throughout the day. The event was hosted at Merrimack High, drawing community support and openness for everyone to appreciate the hard work behind robotics.
Engagement in the Local Scene
Visitors had the chance to explore the pit crews and repair stations set up across the venue, showcasing the resources and teamwork involved in preparing for the competition. This engagement with the community enhances the event’s connection to local schools and advocates for young people pursuing careers in STEM fields.
Alliance 1 Victorious
After an exciting day filled with engineering prowess and spirited competition, Alliance 1 emerged victorious. This formidable alliance comprised team 190 Gompei and the HERD from Worcester, Massachusetts, 2877 LigerBots from Newtonville, Massachusetts, and 5422 Stormgears from Westford, Massachusetts. Their collaboration and hard work shone bright, showcasing the essence of FIRST in action. A detailed account of the playoffs can be seen on the official FIRST webpage.
Anticipation for the Season Ahead
As teams pack up their gear from this highly competitive day, excitement buzzes for the upcoming 2025 FRC season. This inaugural event serves not only as a starting point for teams but also as an opportunity to learn and grow. Those involved have walked away with admirable insights into the dynamics of teamwork and engineering in real-world applications.
Video Highlights From the Competition
For those who missed the action or want a closer look into the high-energy competition filled with innovation, check out the thrilling video highlights from the event on YouTube. The footage showcases the creativity and problem-solving displayed throughout the day, providing a glimpse into the future of robotics.
Conclusion: Building the Future Through Robotics
The "Week Zero" competition at Merrimack High School showcased remarkable talent, teamwork, and the spirit of innovation. As high-school students navigate through engineering challenges alongside experienced mentors, they not only construct robots but also forge invaluable life skills. With an eye on the upcoming competition season, the FIRST community eagerly embraces the thrill of discovery, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence—one robot at a time. As they embark on this educational adventure, these young innovators are not just competing; they are building a brighter, tech-savvy future for themselves and the generations to come.
