Robotics

First Tech Challenge (FTC) Robotics Competition – A Fantastic Start!

Last Friday, six Pymble teams proudly represented our College at the FTC Robotics Competition in Wollongong. For these students, it was their first time competing in an FTC event, and their dedication and resilience shone throughout the day.

Our teams—Pymble Lion Cubs (18359), Pymble Panglerfish (18363), Shark Sub (18362), Pymble Parrots (12554), Pymble Pterojazama Party Sharks (23636), and Pymble Plions (18360)—faced the challenges of the competition with determination and teamwork. FTC is a highly challenging competition designed for students in Year 9 and above, due to its complexity and the advanced skills required. However, in an exciting first for Pymble, we had a team of Year 7 and 8 students, the Pymble Lion Cubs, competing alongside teams made up of Year 9 to Year 12 students. Impressively, the Lion Cubs were the only Year 7 and 8 team at the competition, showcasing their courage and determination in the face of such tough competition.

Each team experienced their own unique victories, from mastering subsystems, to scoring points and winning matches. The event was especially exciting for Pymble Lion Cubs, who earned the Design Award, and Pymble Panglerfish, who claimed the Think Award and secured their spot in the Nationals. A big congratulations to Shark Sub, who celebrated the ultimate success of winning the competition alongside with team 11146 Barker Redbacks!

Despite the ups and downs, every team’s commitment and passion were evident. Well done to all students for an incredible debut in FTC Robotics. The future looks bright, and we can’t wait to see what you achieve next!

I also wanted to highlight the incredible journeys of Shark Sub (18362) and Pymble Panglerfish (18363). Both teams dedicated countless hours to extra sessions, driven by their ambitious visions from the start of the season.

Shark Sub faced a significant challenge just two days before the competition, completely reworking their robot’s design strategy. They focused on a unique gameplay element that most teams couldn’t achieve, excelling in this area better than anyone else. Their bold decision and outstanding performance earned them a spot in the playoffs with the first alliance, celebrating the ultimate success of winning the competition!

Pymble Panglerfish tackled an equally ambitious project with a highly complex robot design, integrating multiple subsystems to score. Despite their efforts, they faced significant obstacles, finishing their robot at the competition and having limited driver practice. While they only managed to win one match and didn’t make the playoffs, their perseverance and determination left a lasting impression. When they thought their season was over, the Judges recognized their incredible hard work and resilience by awarding them the prestigious Think Award, securing their place at Nationals.

Both teams exemplify what it means to rise to the challenge, showing creativity, determination, and grit—an inspiring example for all!