Excitement Builds at the 2025 FIRST Robotics Competition in La Crosse
The La Crosse Center has once again transformed into a vibrant hub for innovation and creativity, hosting the 2025 FIRST Robotics Competition Seven Rivers Regional. This exciting event brings together high school students from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa, showcasing their skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
A Platform for Young Innovators
Every year, students dive headfirst into the realm of robotics, spending six intense weeks designing and constructing their machines. "They get their task at the beginning of January and then work diligently, with the help of mentors, to create truly amazing robots," notes Jason Jones, Co-Chairperson of the Seven Rivers Regional Planning Committee. This year’s competition theme—Reefscape—challenges teams to develop robots with an underwater concept, embodying the complexities of coral ecosystems.
The Challenge of Reefscape
Competitors were tasked with constructing robots that could interact with structures resembling coral reefs made from PVC pipes. The machines have to knock balls out of these structures and transport them to a designated area where human players complete the task by tossing them into a ‘barge’. "It’s fascinating to see how creatively these teams interpret the underwater theme," Jones adds.
The Thrill of Competition
For many participants, the thrill of competition is what drives them. "I’m really competitive; building a robot for six weeks and then finally seeing it in action is just exhilarating!" says Brandon Baker, a member of the Trempealeau Co. Robotics Team. This sentiment is echoed by Graci Schuman, another team member, who says, “I’ve learned so many different tools and have grown to appreciate the building process. I really enjoy the hands-on aspect of it.”
Beyond the Competition
While competition is fierce, the focus is on learning and collaboration. The robots initially operate autonomously for the first 20 seconds, after which students take control, adding to the excitement and showcasing their hard work. Winners from the Seven Rivers Regional will have the opportunity to move on to the world championship in Houston, Texas, competing with over 800 teams from across the globe.
Celebrating Local Talent
The robotics competition has become a standout event in La Crosse, having been held for eight years and drawing visitors to witness the innovation and teamwork. This year’s event wraps up on Saturday and is free for the public, inviting the community to support the budding engineers of tomorrow.
Join the Fun
The energy and creativity displayed at the Seven Rivers Regional is inspiring, and it’s a testament to the importance of nurturing youth in STEM fields. If you’re in the area, take the chance to witness these remarkable robots in action and cheer on the teams!
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