Benjamin Logan Robotic Club’s Inaugural FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Scrimmage: A Triumph of Innovation and Teamwork

A Crucible of Creativity: Benjamin Logan High School Hosts Inaugural FTC Scrimmage

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Ohio, Benjamin Logan High School played host to an electrifying event that ignited the passions of young minds and showcased the boundless potential of innovation. On Thursday, January 2024, the Benjamin Logan Robotic Club proudly unveiled its inaugural FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) scrimmage, marking a watershed moment in the club’s history.

A Convergence of Brilliance: Six Schools Unite in Friendly Rivalry

The scrimmage served as a beacon of opportunity, drawing together six schools from diverse corners of the region, including Toledo and Cincinnati. These schools, united by a shared passion for robotics, brought forth nine meticulously crafted robots, each a testament to the students’ ingenuity and technical prowess.

The Challenge: An Artistic Symphony of Engineering

This year’s FTC game presented a unique challenge, inviting teams to embark on an arts-themed odyssey. The robots, guided by the skillful hands of their creators, were tasked with delicately picking up plastic “pixels” and strategically placing them upon a designated backdrop, transforming the arena into a vibrant canvas of creativity. The game also demanded precision in shooting “drones” (paper airplanes) and demonstrating the robots’ ability to hang from rigging, adding an element of suspense and agility.

Byers Auto: A Stalwart Pillar of Support

The resounding success of the scrimmage owes much to the unwavering support of Byers Auto, a long-standing benefactor of the Benjamin Logan Robotic Club. Their unwavering commitment to the club’s endeavors has been instrumental in providing resources and fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive and unleash their creativity.

Event Highlights: A Tapestry of Innovation and Camaraderie

The inaugural FTC scrimmage was a symphony of innovation, collaboration, and intellectual stimulation, offering a glimpse into the boundless possibilities that lie at the intersection of technology and human ingenuity.

1. Robotic Virtuosity: A Showcase of Precision and Strategy

The nine participating robots took center stage, captivating the audience with their intricate maneuvers and awe-inspiring displays of precision. The teams’ tireless efforts were evident in the robots’ seamless execution of complex tasks, demonstrating their mastery of engineering principles and strategic thinking.

2. Collaboration Across Boundaries: Fostering Unity and Growth

The scrimmage transcended the boundaries of individual schools, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual support. Teams from different backgrounds exchanged ideas, offered assistance, and celebrated each other’s successes, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared passion.

3. Quiz Bowl Interlude: A Clash of Wits and Knowledge

In between the exhilarating robot matches, the Benjamin Logan High School Quiz Bowl team engaged the robotics teams in a series of thought-provoking trivia challenges. This intellectual interlude provided a refreshing break from the intense competition, allowing students to showcase their prowess in various academic domains and engage in friendly rivalry.

4. Preparing for the Miami University Tournament: A Crucible of Excellence

The scrimmage served as an invaluable warm-up for the upcoming Miami University qualifying tournament, scheduled for the first weekend of February. The teams seized this opportunity to identify areas for improvement, refine their strategies, and ensure their robots were operating at peak performance.

A Resounding Success: A Testament to Perseverance and Passion

The inaugural FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) scrimmage hosted by the Benjamin Logan Robotic Club was an unqualified triumph, providing a platform for students to showcase their creativity, technical prowess, and unwavering dedication. The event fostered a spirit of collaboration, friendly competition, and intellectual growth among the participating teams. The support of Byers Auto and the involvement of the Quiz Bowl team greatly contributed to the overall success of the scrimmage. The teams are now eagerly preparing for the upcoming Miami University qualifying tournament, where they will strive to excel and represent their schools with pride.

As the curtain falls on this remarkable event, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, volunteers, and supporters who made it possible. The Benjamin Logan Robotic Club looks forward to hosting more such events in the future, continuing to inspire young minds and nurturing the next generation of innovators and leaders.