One of Garrett County’s FIRST LEGO League robotics teams, NeXT GEN, recently competed at the FIRST World Festival in St. Louis, Missouri.

The team competed against 84 teams from across the United States and the world. “It was a great opportunity to met and interact with students from various cultures,” stated coach Arlene Lantz. The team did well in all areas of competition including research project, robot design, robot performance, and core values. “We were excited that NeXT GEN was recognized with the third place trophy in Robot Strategy and Innovation,” stated technical coach Phil Malone.

This award is for a team who creates a high performing robot that is engineered solidly and designed and built uniquely. The judges noted the team’s innovative strategy to clean the robot wheels prior to each round to maximize traction and turning accuracy.

The team earned the right to represent Maryland at the World Championship by winning the Maryland State FLL Champion’s Award. The team was honored to represent Garrett County and the state of Maryland at the FLL World Festival.

The team wants to say “thank you” to its sponsors, and the community individuals who supported their many fundraisers. “This has been a unique opportunity for these students. Where else could they meet and compete with other kids from all over the globe?

FIRST Robotics makes learning science and technology fun as well as competitive in a friendly way. It also teaches life skills these kids need now and in the future,” stated Ronni DiGioia, a team coach.