The excitement and innovation of robotics education were on full display at the 2025 FRC State Robotics Competition held at Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU). This year’s game, “Reefscape,” challenged teams to collaborate and compete in a thrilling race to harvest algae, seed coral, and ascend to the ocean surface. The competition not only highlighted technical skills but also emphasized teamwork and strategy among participating alliances. To see how the game works, watch the game animation here.
The Competition Structure
The event unfolded over three action-packed days. On the first day, teams focused on calibrating their robots with the fields and underwent rigorous inspections to ensure compliance with competition standards. By the end of the day, 22 qualification matches had been completed, setting the stage for an exhilarating second day filled with matches 23 through 67. The final day culminated in matches 68-80, followed by alliance selection. This year’s championship concluded with the top four alliances competing on the main field at DTE Energy Music Theatre.
One of the most significant highlights was the announcement of awards. The Goon Squad, Team 3604, not only showcased exceptional performance but also received the Impact Award, earning them a spot at the World Championship in Houston from April 16-19.
A Collaborative Atmosphere
The competition was not just about winning; it fostered a spirit of collaboration among diverse teams from across Michigan. Students learned valuable lessons from each other’s strategies and designs, enriching their understanding of robotics. As Andrew M., a member of Team 3604, expressed, “I feel good since we were able to get to states, both by our impact team and by our performance of our robot.” His sentiments reflect the pride many students felt as they navigated challenges and celebrated achievements together.
Xavier M. from Team 8280 shared his excitement about returning to the States with a renewed sense of confidence: “With me being with my team felt a lot more comfortable going to it than last year… we can actually score all the possible points.” His reflection underscores how past experiences shaped this year’s competitive spirit and camaraderie among team members.
Aslen F., also from Team 8280, acknowledged that while they faced some challenges that prevented them from qualifying for worlds, the experience itself was invaluable: “It was fun… getting the opportunity to be there because some teams aren’t always able to make it to states.”
Mentorship and Growth
Mentorship played a crucial role in guiding students through this complex competition. Kim from Liget University noted how unpredictable this year’s game was: “There’s so much luck involved… It’s really cool to watch because you just don’t know who’s going to win.” Such insights highlight the dynamic nature of robotics competitions, where strategy can shift rapidly.
Leon P. from The School of Marygrove shared his pride in witnessing his team adapt under pressure: “It was great to see the team rally, adapt, and fix problems in real time.” This adaptability is essential in robotics, where technical difficulties often arise unexpectedly.
The Volunteer Experience
Volunteers are integral to making events like these successful. Head Referee Brian expressed his enthusiasm for witnessing new talent emerge: “There are a lot of new teams and new students… showing real promise.” Michael, an FAA volunteer, added that he loves the energy and challenge of the event: “It’s just awesome.” Their commitment reflects the community spirit that makes these competitions memorable.
Conclusion
The SVSU State Robotics Competition proved once again to be a resounding success, fostering competition, collaboration, and innovation among young engineers. As teams prepare for their next steps, especially The Goon Squad gearing up for Worlds, the lessons learned and friendships formed will undoubtedly shape their futures in robotics. Mr. Campau, a parent supporting Team Goon Squad, captured this sentiment perfectly: “It’s an enjoyable experience to see all the different ways teams approach trying to achieve their goals.”
As we look forward to future competitions, it’s clear that events like these do more than crown champions; they inspire future innovators and leaders in STEM fields.
