This weekend, Suttons Bay Public Schools’ Norsemen Robotics, made up of students from Suttons Bay, Lake Leelanau St Mary, and Northport, competed at Lake City High School for the first district competition of the season. The competition consisted of 78 randomized qualification matches, during which each team played as an “alliance” with two others and against three opposing robots. These qualification matches then determined the team’s rank out of the 40 teams present. At the conclusion of the qualification matches, the team ranked 8th.
Following qualifications, alliance selections took place, during which the top eight seeded teams each selected two others to join their alliance in the playoff s. The Norsemen team captained the 5th-seeded alliance and partnered with the Cadillac Connectors of Cadillac and the TriSonics of Allendale to move into the playoffs. Though the Norsemen were eliminated after two playoff rounds, the team’s principles of “robust, reliable, and repairable” were evident as they consistently performed as a top scorer within their alliance and were able to adjust and adapt to challenges on the fly.
Another aspect of the competition took place off the field; at each event, a group of judges spends time observing team dynamics, interviewing students on the design and functions of their robot, and listening to the impact the program has made. This weekend, the judges presented the Norsemen with the industrial design award, sponsored by General Motors. This award celebrates the team that demonstrates industrial design principles, striking a balance between form, function, and aesthetics. The following was announced when the team received the award: “This team has developed simple solutions for their Real World robotics problems. The elegant and reliable application of mechanical design and control solutions has proven consistent. “Leif the Lucky” [our robot’s name] and its Norsemen are sailing to victory. Congratulations Team 3688, the Norsemen of Suttons Bay!”
The Norsemen’s next competition will take place March 15-16 at Traverse City West High School. These events are free and open to the public.
Once again, the team would like to thank the community sponsors and supporters for all that they have accomplished.
“We wouldn’t be able to accomplish or learn anything without your generous support!” said Emma Grant, Norsemen Robotics mentor.
