Wow. What a weekend. As many have already mentioned, this was quite possibly the most challenging regional in Wisconsin I've been a part of in my 6 years as a Roboteer mentor. I still don't think it's fully set it that we were able to be among the survivors of the crazy war of balls and bumpers to finally take home our first blue banner. Huge thanks and congratulations go out to our amazing alliance partners from 1732 and 2202, as well as finalists 3018, 706, and 1259. It was an honor to share the field with you all at the end.
Hilltoppers, it was an honor to be able to finally work with you guys instead of being matched up opposite each other to trade bumper scars like in years past. I'm incredibly happy that we were able to help you guys complete the perfect end to a Saturday that started with such an emotional tribute to Drew. Like I mentioned to several of you throughout our crazy run through elims, he was most definitely a part of this special run. While I did not know him personally, I'm sure we all collectively made him proud and we couldn't have done anything more to make it louder after that final buzzer sounded and that score was revealed. Best of luck to you guys in Midwest and we look forward to seeing you again in St. Louis!
B'East, it was incredibly special to share the euphoria of that first regional victory with you guys! Amazing job throughout the competition and we will definitely be looking for you guys in St. Louis. We were incredibly shocked that you were available to join our alliance at pick 15, but extremely excited that you were. It's just another testament to how stacked this regional actually was when a team of your caliber was available at that slot. Best of luck to you guys moving forward and if you ever need any assistance, you'll never have to look any further than our pit.
Also, congratulations to 1714 on a much deserved Chairman's award! As your video fully demonstrated, you guys are the absolute embodiment of what FIRST stands for. Absolutely inspiring. Best of luck and can't wait to see you guys in St. Louis, as well. Hopefully, we'll finally get that chance to hook up with some truss passes!
Special shout out to our friends from teams 2826 and 4143 for your assistance with batteries, breakers, and general emotional support throughout our run through elims. It's always an honor to compete with you guys and your teams are true class acts through and through. I'm still a firm believer that one of you guys missed out on an opportunity to get something more out of your used frame trade on Saturday, though.
Can't wait to see you all again!