The whir of motors and cheers from the stands filled Chicago Christian High School as students from across the south suburbs put their engineering skills to the test during the FIRST Robotics South Suburban Robotics Meet.
Held Dec. 13, the daylong competition brought together high school teams for a series of fast-paced matches built around this season’s game, Decode. Students guided robots they designed, built and programmed through a challenging course inspired by archaeological exploration.
Teams from Chicago Christian, Homewood-Flossmoor, Bradley-Bourbonnais, Kankakee, Lincoln Way Central, Lincoln Way East, Joliet West and Romeoville competed, each hoping their robot’s design and strategy would give them an edge. Months of preparation were evident as robots maneuvered around obstacles, completed assigned tasks and shot balls to score points while avoiding opposing machines.
It was a banner day for the host school. Chicago Christian’s RoboKnights teams dominated the rankings, with RoboKnights 21333 earning the top spot and RoboKnights 26980 taking second place.
“This is my fourth year working with FIRST Robotics and I always love going to the meets! They are so much fun and you get to meet kids from other schools with similar interests to you,” said Ryan Verver, Chemistry Teacher and Robotics Coach. “The meets are fast paced and fun to be a part of and I love watching the robot I helped build be so successful!”
Students agreed. Hayden Scott, a senior and Director of Build, said the excitement of seeing their hard work in action was unmatched. “I love the meets the most because I am the Director of Outreach and Awards and so the meets are where I get to meet with other teams and volunteers and tell them all about what we do in our community and beyond and how we are ambassadors for FIRST Robotics!” said junior Caleeya Coleman, Director of Outreach and Awards.
Junior Dylan Lester, a robot scout, added, “The meets are the best! I get to do scouting at the meets and I like talking to the other teams and watching all the robots!”
Spectators packed the gymnasium, cheering for robots as they collided, pivoted and scored, creating an energetic and supportive atmosphere. Parents, classmates and community members applauded successful runs and near misses alike.
Looking ahead, the RoboKnights will compete at the state qualifier on Feb. 14 at Parker Junior High, aiming to continue their streak of success. The excitement doesn’t stop there. The team has also been selected to represent Illinois at the inaugural United States Governor’s Cup in Washington, D.C., Feb. 20–21. They were the only team from Illinois chosen to join 50 other teams—one from each state—for this national FIRST Tech Challenge exhibition and scrimmage-style event. The competition, held at DAR Constitution Hall, promises to celebrate the next generation of STEM leaders, with students playing Decode and showcasing innovation on a national stage.
The meet was free and open to the public, drawing families curious to see robotics in action as well as longtime supporters of the FIRST Robotics program. Organizers said events like the South Suburban meet give students valuable experience in science, technology, engineering and math while encouraging creativity and collaboration.
The competition took place at Chicago Christian High School, 12001 S. Oak Park Ave., capping a day that showcased student innovation, friendly rivalry and a glimpse of what the future holds for young engineers.
