On Jan. 17-18, nine outstanding teams from St. Johns County represented their schools and organizations at the First LEGO League Regional Tournament in Alachua. Competing against the top 30% of teams across Northeast Florida, these groups showcased exceptional innovation, teamwork and determination in the fields of robotics, engineering and project design.
The St. Johns County teams who advanced to this prestigious event included:
These teams joined 60 elite groups from a field of more than 200, earning their place at regionals through months of hard work, creativity and preparation. They competed in a series of events testing their robot design, programming and core values, as well as their ability to innovate and present solutions to real-world challenges.
Ryan Clark, vice president of Builders of Tomorrow, praised the students for their dedication and professionalism.
“The enthusiasm and effort displayed by all the teams were inspiring,” said Clark. “This was a fantastic opportunity for these young innovators to put their skills to the test, learn from one another and celebrate their accomplishments.”
The competition took place at Legacy Park Multipurpose Center in Alachua, where the energy and excitement were palpable as students presented their projects and tackled challenges on the robot competition tables.
Celebrating Excellence
Every team brought their unique perspective and creative flair to the event, and their success in advancing to regionals reflects the thriving STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) culture in St. Johns County.
The event organizers and coaches emphasized the importance of fostering a passion for STEM disciplines.
“It’s not just about the robots; it’s about developing problem-solving skills, creativity, teamwork and confidence,” said Joel, a long-time coach and mentor. “These students are tomorrow’s innovators.”
Looking Ahead
The First LEGO League Regional Tournament served as a platform for young minds to push boundaries and explore their potential. As they continue their journeys in robotics and STEM, these teams have demonstrated that St. Johns County is a hub of innovation and talent.