Central Iowa Robotics Team Gears Up for Global Championship in Texas

CUMMING, Iowa — Excitement is building for the Atomic Narwhals, a dynamic robotics team from Central Iowa, as they prepare to compete at the prestigious FIRST Championship in Houston, Texas, from April 16 to 19. This talented group is comprised of 14 dedicated students, ranging from seventh to twelfth grade, hailing from various metro schools across the region.

A Journey of Innovation and Teamwork

Since September, the Atomic Narwhals have invested countless hours in designing, building, and programming their robots. The result of their hard work? A fierce, two-and-a-half-minute competition that challenges their skills and creativity. In the competition, the students aim to score points by adeptly dropping blocks into bins or hanging them on a bar—every second and movement counts.

Coach Smita Volz praised the team’s efforts, stating, "It has been such a journey. The kids have worked so hard and for so long to get here. All their hard work is finally coming to fruition." The support from their coach has been invaluable, providing encouragement and guidance throughout this intense experience.

The Road Ahead: Competition in Houston

The upcoming FIRST Championship represents an incredible opportunity for the Atomic Narwhals to showcase their talents on a global stage. Competing against hundreds of teams from around the world, they will not only put their skills to the test but also connect with other student innovators and robotics enthusiasts.

Local Pride in Global Competition

As they embark on this adventure, the Atomic Narwhals carry the pride of their community with them. Their journey is a testament to the creativity, collaboration, and educational spirit thriving in Central Iowa’s schools. With every challenge they face and every block they stack, they embody the hope of young inventors inspiring one another and the next generation.

Join the Excitement!

Stay updated on the team’s progress as they compete for a championship title. Interested in being part of their journey? Be sure to follow KCCI’s YouTube page for exclusive content, and download the KCCI app for real-time updates on their adventure in Texas.

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