SAC VEX Robotics team impresses in Calgary

The SAC VEX Robotics team travelled to Calgary February 3-5 to compete in Canada’s first-ever VEX Signature event, and it was an experience to remember. “What a motivating experience. I personally felt recharged, and my enthusiasm in VEX robotics renewed as I witnessed our robotics teams compete,” says Terry Prezens, Head of Computer Science, Engineering Course Director. SAC was the only independent school from Ontario to attend the event, which was held at the Calgary Stampede grounds.

With 102 teams from the U.S. and Canada, and each team playing ten matches, the students put in an impressive performance that tested their teamwork, creativity, and logic. “We realized immediately that we were among some of the best teams in the country.”

Both SAC teams finished the three-day tournament with a record of five wins and five losses and qualified for the playoffs, where they were ranked among the top half of the teams. Because of the elimination format of the playoffs, each team faced one of the top-ranked teams and could not proceed beyond the Round of 16. “This is where our boys impressed me the most, their positive chatter. They enthusiastically discussed how they could improve their robots and what they could do differently next time,” says Terry.

At the team dinner, the smiles and chatter continued, and after school on our first day back, Terry found several of them working on their robots in our Makerspace. “As a teacher, witnessing our students’ reactions as they experienced victories and losses and marching on, I really saw the value of STEM and robotics.”
For the Vex Robotics team, the trip to Calgary was a great success and a testament to the skills and dedication of the students. We look forward to their future endeavours in robotics and wish them all the best.
Back
We are committed to building a sense of belonging in our community.
By dedicating ourselves to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment, we will foster and accept the unique individuality of each of our citizens, ensuring all members feel valued and respected.
"Dedicated to the development of the complete man, the well-rounded citizen." | © 2024 St. Andrew's College. All Rights Reserved. 15800 Yonge Street, Aurora, ON L4G 3H7 Canada