Having qualified for the FIRST Robotics Competition’s World Championship in St. Louis just ten days before the event (April 22-25), the LigerBots confronted another problem: How to get 47 award-winning teammates, coaches, and mentors — plus 1 robot and assorted equipment — to St. Louis, with absolutely no buses available from the companies approved by Newton Public Schools? A week of meetings, brainstorming, lobbying, and collaboration with NPS led to a solution: A caravan of five mini-vans, two cars, plus two trailers hauling 2000 lbs. of gear — driven by parents/coaches/mentors for the 2400-mile round-trip — while some others will make the trip by air. Yet another example of the LigerBots’ gracious professionalism and coopertition: The LigerBots are helping another Boston-area team by transporting some large equipment for them. Here’s how you can participate:
- The team is still fundraising to cover expenses for the trip. You can make a tax-deductible donation online.
- Come to Newton South HS at 6:30AM Tuesday, April 21 for the Send Off!
- Then watch the competition live online. The LigerBots are Team #2877, and you can track their schedule, progress, ranking, and awards in the Newton Division (named for Isaac, not City of).