Among the best FIRST Robotics high school teams in the state, 39 teams will participate in the 2012 Kettering University FIRST Robotics District competition in Flint, scheduled from March 2 to 3. The competition will take place at Kettering’s Recreation Center and it is open to public.
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a national youth undertaking that offers opportunities in engineering, science and technology.
Rebound Rumble will be the game of this year. A large court measuring 27 ft in width by 54 ft in length will accommodate the game. The major targets in the game include three balancing bridges for robots and four basketball scoring hoops at different heights. In order to attain the points, robots will throw the compact basketballs at the four hoops.
The Director of Special Projects, Bob Nichols said that the teams participating in the district games conducted in Kettering will be motivated and prepared for further participation in the state and national competitions. Kettering therefore develops several engineers and scientists for the future. Around 2,000 visitors will be accommodated at the facility during competition and practice.
FIRST focuses on skill, creativity and entertainment and this year’s highlight Rebound Rumble will be an inspiration for the elite teams, besides making FIRST Robotics familiar among the newcomers. FIRST is the unique first-string sport that can be played skillfully in favor of each other.
Pat Major of Goodrich will once again be the chairman of organizing committee.
Kettering’s district’s state championship will be conducted in Ypsilanti, from April 12 to 14. The national championship will be held in St. Louis, Mo., between April 25 and 28.
Source: http://www.kettering.edu/