There are many standard things that make a good robotics team including teamwork, sportsmanship, diligence and of course, success. However, what makes a truly exceptional robotics team, is one in which there is a culture of passion beyond the basics of winning and meeting deadlines. From activism in the greater community to promoting STEM and Lasallian ideals throughout our high school, our robotics team has inspired others to pursue their passions. Though the name “Mech Cadets” has stayed the same, over the past five years it has evolved to have a deeper meaning, one that is representative of the members of the team, our school, the ideals that we hold, and one that I am proud to shout at every robotics competition.
What separates us from other schools is that we actively embody core Lasallian values, those of the De La Salle brothers. Some main components of Lasallian values is the importance of community, respect for all persons, and educating the entire person. On our team, we work to include others, regardless of race, sexuality or gender. We work to build a strong team with friendships and connections that will extend beyond future seasons. Our school also strives to educate the full person by teaching us real life lessons that extend beyond the classroom. This also applies to our robotics program. We learn skills beyond STEM such as budgeting, planning, time management and leadership skills. We also instill gracious professionalism in our participants, as part of educating the whole person.
Achievements
The Mech Cadets has been instilling the values of stem and encouraging coopertition in their members since 2013.
- 2012-2013, Earned Rookie Achievement awards
- 2013-2014, Selected as an alternate in a regional competition
- 2014-2015, Selected to an alliance and competed in quarter finals at regional competition
- 2015-2016, Quarterfinalist and winners at district qualifiers, invited to District Championship
- 2016-2017, Quarterfinalist and Semifinalist at district qualifiers, Semifinalist at District Championship, Invited to FIRST Championship in St. Louis
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