On Nov. 19, two of the three Oxford Middle School Robotics teams (TOWR and Metal Benders) competed in a FIRST Robotics qualifier competition in Lake Orion. There were 36 teams competing.

Oxford had 25 students participate in the event. The final match pitted the two Oxford teams against each other. Team TOWR was with the top Alliance Team and Metal Benders was with the Second Alliance Team.

TOWR’s Alliance Team came out on top by four points in the final match. The FIRST program really encourages gracious professionalism.

“Although we competed against each other in the final match, we cheered each other on and assisted each other whenever needed throughout the day. TOWR took home the Motivate Award and placed 3rd in the Inspire Award (which is the top award of a FIRST event). Metal Benders took 2nd in the Connect Award,” TOWR coach and parent Mary Bak said.

Both Oxford teams advanced to the State Competition on Dec. 9 and 10 at Macomb Community College.

The third Oxford team (Cyborb Cats) will compete on Dece. 3  in Troy.

“We are very hopeful they will be joining us in the State Competition.,” Bak said.