On Saturday, December 15th, the St. Joseph School FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Robotics Teams competed at the Massachusetts (West) State Championship, also known as Robonautica, at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Over 470 teams competed in FIRST LEGO League robotics competitions in Massachusetts this season.  72 of the top teams competed at WPI this past Saturday.  This year’s challenge theme was Into Orbit.  Therefore, in addition to competing with an autonomous robot that teams designed and programmed to solve missions, teams had to identify a real-world problem that exists during long-term space travel.  The ultimate goal is to design an innovative solution that adds value to society.

The SJS team, also known as the Metallic Meteorites was named the Most Inspirational Team.  This Frist Place Award celebrates a team that is empowered by their FLL experience and displays extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit at LEGO events and in the community.  During the presentation, the Master of Ceremonies stated, “This team recognized each other’s strengths and sought out areas for improvement.  Despite being a large team, they worked together to make sure everyone had a voice and input.  Their dedication and enthusiasm helped feed not only their own learning, but helped feed their own community, too.”

Congratulations to the team for applying the FIRST LEGO League Core Values at the competition and at school, as well as being recognized for the positive influence you have on others while serving the community.  The team’s discussion with judges of the time they spend at the local food pantry, assisting young athletes with developing their skills, and running clothing and food drives, certainly made an impression.  It is a testament to the Foundation for Life they receive at St. Joseph School.

Team members include 5th Grade Student: Paul Mankarios, 6th Grade Students: Dale Boudreau, William Colebourn, Lauren Gingo and team alternate Zane Ferri, 7th Grade Students:  Tessa McCabe, Noalani Perez, and Dominic Pigeon, and, 8th Grade Students:  Patrick Mahlert, Remonda Mankarios, and Olivia Montione.

The team is sponsored by Leonard Montione and Nordic Shield Plastics, Oxford, MA.  They are coached by Beth & Joey Boudreau and Mariusz Macko.