[MooreteP]

A terrific one-day event celebrating the 20+ years of Robotics teams in Connecticut culminating in a State Championship that recognizes Robotics as a High School Team Sport.

13 of the 26 teams attended the CMP two weeks ago.
6 were Divisional Quarterfinalists, 1 was a Semifinalist, 4 were Finalists, and one was a Semifinalist on Einstein.

The CT State champs Finalists of 1124, 230, and 3719 did their best, but finally succumbed to the boulder fire power of 195 & 558.
2170 went along for quite a ride, finally making a high goal shot in the Finals. It's tough being the last pick in a shallow field. They performed well in the heat of the playoffs. They deserve the State Championship for the role that they played so well.

The two teams that were the backup Robots actually left the competition and one of them brought their Robot back, but they weren't needed due to the heroic efforts of 2170 to keep their Robot functioning. While this year was not as successful as your last, you still demonstrate the qualities of a legitimate contender.
(When they ask the Robots that weren't picked to remain at the site in the event that a backup is needed, they mean it)

Nonetheless, a great capstone to a wonderful season where I saw many teams evolve their designs and strategies.

A few Notable Examples:

Uberbots, 1124. Making 50/55 of your high goal shots at the CMP was incredible.
Your performance today was inspiring. The vagaries of your season cannot be understated. Brava and Bravo for your fortitude.

Bobcats, 177. Glad to see that you are back in the saddle again. Beautiful design and machining. Very disciplined drive team.

Aces High, 176. From my Hometown. Always under the radar. Your consistent performance year in and year out make me jealous.

Elm City RoboSquad, 558. Watching you become an elite team is enlivening. Your drivetrains are emulatable. (Spell check says that isn't a word, I think it is.) Your students deciding to redesign your Robot mid-season is a testament to effective mentoring.

Panther Project, 2064, Thank you for hosting this event at your beautifully sited school. Your last three years have seen you really step up your game. Your Robots are always beautiful to look at.

Aluminum Falcons, 2168, Your competition wins over the last 5 years are incredible. Your performance is always well above average.

MechaRams, 999, Changing your name was more than a surface effect. Your recent successes bespeak a fundamental team structure that is motivating, yes, motivating.

Apple Pi, 2067, Always the "Saab" of a Robot. Unique, effective, and like no other. You are a successful team every year.

GaelHawks, 230. Ever since my team won Hartford with you way back in 2004, I have tried to find a way to make our team more like yours. Thank you for providing a roadmap for successful teams.

Birds of Prey, 181, Always bring the Spirit and a darn good Robot too. You low goal consistency today was respectable.

GUS, 228, Not your best Robot compared to the past, but you are always in the hunt and took home yet another Blue Banner this year. Looking forward to your Barbecue at WIWI in a few weeks.

CyberKnights, 195. No words. 'nuff said.

No offense leaving any of the other great contenders off this list. It's been a wonderfully long day. I am tired. But it's a good tired.
I did not plan to attend this event, but I am glad that I did. A huge thank you to Becky.