Recently, the New York City Championship for the FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition was held. After a long season of dedication and hard work, MTA Lionotics showed up with their best robot yet. It boasted custom 3D-printed parts, laser cut parts, and a precisely designed aluminum body, as well as an array of different types of motors, servos, and sensors. Critical screws were tightened one last time, wiring was strapped into place, software was finalized, and we were ready for an intense day of completion.
However, the Lionotics’ day got off to a rough start, seeing a tough match schedule and losing their first game. The team quickly rebounded and turned it around, winning four of their six qualifying matches, with a flawless autonomous program and efficient driving. This was one of the most robust and reliable robots in Lionotics history, and it was competitive against the best teams in the city.
This impressive performance landed Lionotics in fourth place after the qualification matches. This is out of over 100 teams in the city overall, and 24 who made it to the championship round. Next came the playoffs, where the top four teams chose partners to join them for the elimination matches. As the fourth place team, MTA got to be an alliance captain, but it would be tough. The Lionotics team was going up against the top team in the city in the semifinals, an alliance including the Avenues School and Stuyvesant.
The elimination matches were the most impressive displays of the day, with great robots showing off their autonomous control, driver prowess, and sturdy designs. Scores went through the roof, almost doubling from the qualification matches earlier in the day. MTA gave it their best effort, but ended up losing 231-238 and 250-286, getting knocked out in the semifinals.
There was some disappointment in not winning it all, but Lionotics left with their heads held high. Their robot truly performed, and all of their hard work paid off. Congratulations to MTA Lionotics on a fantastic robotics season, and we are looking forward to a productive postseason and a new competition next year. Thanks to the great people at FIRST Robotics who make this happen, and thanks to the MTA administration and staff that is so supportive of our team!
