Robots are taking over Magna Vista High School on Saturday, Oct. 3, as student robotics teams from across the region come together for the Southern Virginia Showdown, an off-season FIRST® Robotics Competition event designed to give students another opportunity to compete, learn and showcase their skills.
Hosted by FRC Team 1262 – The STAGS, FRC Team 3258 – MADAWGS, and FTC Team 21358 – Shockwave Robotics, the Southern Virginia Showdown will bring the excitement of competitive robotics to the community while highlighting the engineering, programming, problem-solving, teamwork and creativity of area students.
The competition will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Magna Vista High School, located at 701 Magna Vista School Road in Ridgeway.
The event is in partnership with West Piedmont Higher Education Center, Henry County Public Schools, and FIRST Chesapeake, and will feature teams competing in fast-paced matches throughout the day.
“Robotics provides students with an incredible opportunity to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to real-world challenges,” said Joe Sumner, executive director of West Piedmont Higher Education Center. “The Southern Virginia Showdown is a great example of the collaboration happening throughout our region to give students hands-on STEM experiences while helping them develop the technical and problem-solving skills that can prepare them for future education and careers. We are excited to welcome the community to come see these students put those skills into action.”
Community members are invited to attend the Southern Virginia Showdown and experience FIRST Robotics Competition firsthand. No prior knowledge of robotics is required to enjoy the event.
Spectators will see student-built robots competing in fast-paced matches while teams strategize, troubleshoot and make adjustments throughout the competition. The event also provides an opportunity for families, educators and community members to learn more about the opportunities available to students through robotics and STEM programs.
“An off-season event like the Southern Virginia Showdown gives our teams a chance to compete in a different environment, learn from other teams and continue developing as both engineers and teammates,” said Trevor Martin, Lead Mentor for The STAGS, FRC Team 1262. “For our students, getting to compete in front of their families, friends and community makes the experience even more meaningful. We hope people will come out, see what these students have built and cheer them on.”
The event is expected to provide a full day of STEM-focused activity and an opportunity to showcase the growing interest in robotics among students throughout Southern Virginia.
