More than 20,000 students from all 50 states and over 60 countries gathered at the 2024 VEX Robotics World Championship, held from April 25 to May 3 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Downtown Dallas.
Among them, the Orchard Hills Robotics Team 8838B, Team Century, a California State Robot Skills Champion, distinguished itself. Despite competing in the most challenging division alongside champion teams from around the world, the team's consistent autonomous programming, swift last-second elevation, and effective match strategy secured them an alliance with the highest-ranking team, the Mississippi State Champion, forming the #1 alliance for the elimination rounds.
They emerged victorious against formidable opponents and advanced to the division finals, facing off against the Asia-Pacific champion team from China, which remained undefeated after 13 matches. Displaying unwavering determination, 8838B and its alliance won the first match in the final but narrowly missed clinching the best-of-three series, finishing at #2 out of 82 teams in the division. This marks 8838B's consecutive appearance as a Division Finalist at Worlds, following its World Championship victory in 2022.
In addition, several of our other teams had a remarkable performance. Team 8838D, Amirite, ranked #7 overall in their division going 8-2 against some of the best teams from around the world. They also secured the #3 alliance with the winners of the Washington State Champion tournament. After several hard-fought elimination rounds, they made it to the quarter-finals in their division where they ultimately lost. This does not take away from their amazing season as State Champions, California Skills Champions, and Signature Event Champions. Not to mention, they also ranked top 20 in the world skills ranking when all was said and done.
Team 8838C, Celestial, also did very well as they secured the #16 alliance with the Kentucky State Tournament Finalists in the elimination rounds. They faced off against the number one team from China (IFT) along with their alliance, which is also from one of the most prestigious schools in China. After a hard-fought battle in the round of 16, they lost. However, they showed valiant effort and lost by only two tri-balls.
Lastly, Team 8838A did very well in their qualification matches, ranking in the top 25 overall out of 80 of the best teams from around the world. Team A was also recognized on the world stage in front of 10,000 people as they received their award for the Girl Powered Online Challenge. As first-year VRC robotics students, they did an amazing job going head-to-head against some of the strongest teams from around the world.
IQ Team 3383E also held their own at Worlds, going against some of the best IQ teams from around the world. It was a tough competition, but they rose to the challenge and overcame all obstacles that stood in their way. They also ranked in the top 10% in the World Skills Ranking.
While we take immense pride in the team's extraordinary performance on the global stage, showcasing Orchard Hills' world-class robotics program, we would like to take this opportunity to recognize our robotics coach, Mr. Kevin Kim.
As a parent put it, "throughout the season, Mr. Kim has gone above and beyond, dedicating countless hours after work to host additional practice sessions for the teams. He always ensures that the team has access to the best resources and support available and encourages every student to be the best version of themselves. Mr. Kim's exceptional passion, dedication, and leadership have been the driving force behind the team's continued success."
Cheers to another incredible Robotics Season for all the Robohawks!
