Robotics rule at Coloma High School; Watervliet Middle School team in competition

PANTARIANS... Watervliet Middle School robotics team competed in Coloma on Dec. 2, 2023 in a qualifier event. Shown are: (from the left) Coach Dave Kindt with student members Amber, Brady, Rylie, Jonah, Lucas, and Paige. Not available for the photo was Jaxon and Caroline. (TCR photo by Sheila Schultz)

On Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, Coloma High School was the site for the “first” in Michigan FIRST Tech Challenge Sunset Coast Splash Qualifier. Kevin Russell, event coordinator and Robotics advisor for Coloma High School and lead mentor for Coloma H.S. FRC #2959, the CW Tech Robotarians, hosted approximately 300 students; plus coaches and volunteers for this challenge.

Thirty-two middle schools from Muskegon to Three Oaks participated in the event. Individual teams competed in qualification matches, alliance selections based on their scores during qualification matches, and the final elimination rounds. The teams demonstrated STEM/STEAM skills of design, creativity, and precision; but with “gracious professionalism.” All teams competed in five matches throughout the day.

The Watervliet Middle School team, Pantarians Team #17772, was the only participating team from the Tri-City area. The Watervliet Pantarians, coached by WMS Principal David Kindt, won two out of their five challenges and finished in the #20 position overall.