The Norsemen Robotics team battled in district competition at Traverse City Central Friday and Saturday, resulting in a 9-3 overall record.
At the conclusion of qualifications, Suttons Bay ranked fourth and moved into the playoff s as the third-seeded Alliance.
“The reliable and elevated design concepts of the robot were recognized by the panel of judges that spent the weekend interviewing students on many different aspects of the program, including robot design, build process, and team dynamics,” Suttons Bay coach Emma Grant said. “Norsemen Robotics would like to extend their gratitude to all sponsors and supporters.”
The Norsemen captained the 3rd-Seeded Alliance, choosing team 3770 BlitzCreek from Midland and 3537 DeltaForce from Indian River to play alongside them. Their Alliance was eliminated after two playoff rounds.
The competition consisted of 80 randomized qualification matches, during which each team played as an “alliance” with two others and against three opposing robots. These qualification matches then determined each team’s rank out of the 40 teams present.
The Norsemen were the recipient of the Industrial Design Award, which celebrates the team that “demonstrates industrial design principles, striking a balance between form, function, and aesthetics.”
Norsemen Robotics was founded at Suttons Bay High School in 2011 and has since expanded to include students from Lake Leelanau St Mary and Northport high schools.
“We are extremely proud of our relationships with our community and our strong alumni base. During this year’s competitions, several team alumni, parents of alumni, and team sponsors attended to support the team. Additionally, two team alumni have returned to the team as mentors,” Suttons Bay coach Emma Grant said.
The team’s slogan, “Small Town, Big Impact,” continues to ring true.
The Suttons Bay robotics team consists of students from Lake Leelanau St. Mary and Northport, along with Suttons Bay students.
