History from 2009-2010 Season

Team history:  *

As a fifth year team, we continue to develop new skills such as utilizing pneumatics and mecanum wheels.  We consistently enter the chairman award considering this to be a self examination process so that we will continue to improve as a FIRST team.

Team goals:*

Although we desire to produce a competitive robot, our goal is focused on student input in the design and building of the robot.  Our mentors advise and teach without interference.  This partnership encourages our students to pursue engineering careers.

Team’s FIRST impact:*

Our success has influenced the school system administration to invest in FLL teams which we continue to support with mentoring and demonstrations.  Many of our alumni have selected engineering as a career and some return to the team as mentors.

Community description: *

Manassas City, rich in history, has a small town atmosphere, although surrounded by urban sprawl. Osbourn HS is a major focal point of this diverse and transit community. We are a system with only one high school with a growing Hispanic population.

Team strengths:*

We have outstanding student leadership.   We are fully funded by the business and educational community through donations and grants.  Mentors return each year to give enthusiastic assistance and the school system superintendent is our biggest fan.

Most significant challenge overcome: *

We had a lot of trouble getting into school to work on the robot due to the severe weather conditions this winter. Luckily, our student project managers organized and lead the team to complete the project in time for successful shipment.

Robot and Game Strategy:*

The main design goal was to create a robot with the ability to kick a soccer ball across the length of the field.   Utilizing mecanum wheels and a pulley system for ball control, we should be able to score and pass the ball to our alliance.

Most competitive awards: *

We are most competitive for the Judges’ Award. Our team was able to overcome the time missed due to snow by great planning, team work, and a lot of hard work.  We are a good solid team which respects the skills and opinions of all team members.

Funding sources: *

We rely heavily each year on the funding provided by Lockheed, Aurora Flight, Manassas Education Foundation, Micron, and the Breeden Foundation. This year we received a new grant from the Rhodes Foundation and additional donations from parents.

Public Awareness:*

Activities are publicized in local newspapers, over local cable, and with letters and flyers. We demonstrate the robot at Camp Eagle for kids, elementary school fairs, and to our FLL. We send invitations to everyone from the President to the city mayor.

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Thanks to all of our sponsors, without them we wouldn't be possible!