[BobbyVanNess]

I guess I'll take a stab at upstate New York...

1. 5254 - The 5 poofs have been phenomenal from their inception in 2014. We on 20 have had the awesome experience of working and practicing with them as they've generated some serious HYPE with world class COTS robots these past two years.

2. 2791 - Perhaps the most beautiful robot in New York, Shaker reached the top level of play this season, sinking 7-8 high goals in tele plus a 20 point auto multiple times between FLR and TVR. Though this isn't their first powerful robot (2013, 2014), this is probably their first time breaking into the true "Top Tier" of FIRST.

3. 3044 - OxBE4 has had varying degrees of success, but since their first regional win at WPI in 2013, they've been steadily improving. They had some troubles at TVR due to ambient light, but once they got past this at FLR, they were capable of 7 high goals in tele and a 20 point auto. After earning a wildcard in the finals of FLR, this may likely be their most successful champs appearance yet!

4. 5236 - Man O' War Robotics showed up in 2014 as rookies with a consistent high goal shooter, and have continued to build simple, effective robots. This year, they captained the 3 seed alliance at TVR, but fell in the semi-finals, taking it to 3 against the 2 seed alliance.

5. 4930 - After coming up short at TVR, Electric Mayhem made a strong showing at FLR, captaining the 3 seed alliance to a finals finish, and earning themselves a wildcard.

A number of these teams will be attending champs, and I know that a few will be applying for IRI as well. Keep an eye out for them!