Hightstown HS Hosting Robotics Competition Jan. 20

The varsity sport for the mind will be on display this weekend, as the Hightstown High School FIRST Robotics Team Mercury will be hosting the Snow Day Showdown on Jan. 20.

The Showdown is a FIRST Tech Challenge competition event, where competition FTC teams will be showcasing the abilities of the robot they’ve worked diligently to construct during weeks of building. 

The event combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources and time limits, teams of 25 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team "brand," hone teamwork skills, and build and program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors.  It’s as close to "real-world engineering" as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team.

The FIRST Tech mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership. 

Founded in 1989 to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology, the program designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.

Matches will start at 10 a.m. on Jan. 20 in the cafeteria of Hightstown High School.  Concessions will be available for purchase. For more information contact Chris Gregory at cgregory@ewrsd.k12.nj.us