UCS team programs success in robotics tournament

A Utica Community Schools team earned top honors at a state robotics tournament after claiming the regional title.

The UCS team - The Evil Croutons - won a qualifying event in Canton, which earned them a spot to compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) State Championship held in Battle Creek, Michigan.

At the state tournament, the team ranked 21st out of 128 competitors.

“The team faced many challenges but always persevered to overcome their obstacles. I am extremely proud of the Canton win and they were able to experience the thrill of the state competition,” said Mark Fraylick, team coach and mentor. “Their dedication and hard work certainly paid off.”

The team consists of students from Bemis Junior High School, Shelby Junior High School, Utica Academy for International Studies (UAIS) and Stoney Creek High School. The team’s mentor is Mark Fraylick.

Team members are Isabelle Bazzy, Neil Fraylick, Shelby Host, Sam Hume, Nino Caiozzo and Ian McKinnon.

The Evil Croutons robot was student-built from common parts to compete against custom machined robots.

Three team members - two drivers and a coach - competed during each match.

The junior high FTC teams were started during the 2013/2014 school year as a way to get students interested in joining the high school robotics team Crevolution which is coached by Bryan Battaglia – Head Mentor for FIRST Robotics Team #2851 and UAIS physics coach.

Robotic competitions are similar to sporting events complete with excitement, pressure, scoring and teamwork.

For more information, please visit crevolutionrobotics.org.