Team 1218 are Semifinalists and Award-winners at FIRST Robotics Competition

By Alec Gupte '26
Robotics Media Team 

Team 1218 kicked off their competition season this weekend, traveling to NJ for the Mount Olive High School FIRST Robotics Competition. Despite a first-round playoff exit, the team impressed with a strong showing and an innovative robot design.

Team 1218 secured an impressive 15th-place ranking out of 34 teams after qualifications. More importantly, their robot's performance caught the eye of the competition's host team, Mount Olive Robotics Team (M.O.R.T.) who selected Team 1218 as their second overall pick for the playoff alliances. Alongside Pingry Robotics, they formed a formidable alliance.

While their playoff run ended after just one victory, Team 1218 didn't leave empty-handed. They received the prestigious "Innovation in Control" award, highlighting the robot's precise on-field communication system. This award, made possible by the team's programming expertise and high-quality cameras, propels them closer to their ultimate goal: competing at the FIRST Robotics World Championship in Houston.

"Our robot performed exceptionally well," said team member Alec Gupte. "It consistently scored high points and flawlessly completed the climbing challenge at the end of each match."

Team 1218 has high hopes for the rest of the season, building upon their early success and innovative design.