By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
HOUSTON—FIRST Robotics held its 2024 World Finals at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston beginning Wednesday April 17, and running through Saturday, April 20.
And for the third straight year, the team from Otsego High School was among the more than 600 teams from across the nation—and the globe—to participate.
Otsego High School computer science teacher Michael Miller serves as coach for the OHS team, known as the Alotobots.
“It was another amazing experience for students and mentors,” Miller said. “They made many connections with other teams around the U.S. and world.
“Plus, they were able to compete at a high level on a worldwide stage. It was something they’ll remember for a long time.”
An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 people were in attendance for the high school portion of the event, with 50,000 in attendance for all levels of the competition.
“One of the things that sticks out the most to me is the sheer amount of people and teams that have invested their time and energy,” Miller said. “It is amazing to see so many school investing so much into STEM.”
In terms of the competitions, the Alotobots placed 13th out of 74 teams in their division. They finished 136th out of 3,474 teams worldwide, 120th out of 2,806 teams in the United States and 21st out of 511 teams in Michigan.
“The kids ran great all week,” Miller said. “It was very satisfying to see all of their hard work paying off.”
And while the trip to Houston is over—at least for this year—Miller knows the experience has left a lasting impression on the Otsego students who were involved.
“Participating in the FIRST Robotics World Championship is a transformative experience that not only equips students with valuable technical skills but also fosters personal growth, teamwork and a passion for STEM fields,” Miller said.
“Moving forward, this helps create for my seniors a great foundation for the next chapter of their life and the underclassmen goals of building and competing robotics on a worldwide stage.”
Speaking of those seniors, several who have been involved in robotics since elementary school, Miller said they will be missed.
“We have an amazing group of seniors that had an amazing run at robotics,” he said. “They were part of three straight state championship qualifications and three consecutive World Championship qualifications. That’s really impressive.
“I am sad to see them go as a coach, but excited to watch them excel in their plans after high school. They are going to do great things. I couldn’t be any prouder of them as a coach.”
The Otsego community was also proud of the seniors and the other team members, as evidenced by the fire-truck escort the team received when it returned to town.
“Having that kind of welcome when we got back was amazing,” Miller said. “We are very thankful for the people who organized that along with our family members and friends who helped welcome us home.
“The kids loved it and felt appreciated and recognized for their accomplishments. We have a great community and we’re so proud to be able to represent it.”
