The Lobstah Bowl V5RC Signature Event

Sept. 12th-14th, 2024

University of Maine, Orono

Volunteers Needed!

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join us as score keepers, referees, field resetters, and more. Get involved in this exciting event!

2024 Event Sponsors

The Event

The international VEX Robotics Lobstah Bowl V5RC Signature Event, set to take place at the University of Maine in Orono from September 12-14, is an exciting event that underscores the importance of STEM education in Maine. The LOBSTAH BOWL is actively seeking sponsors, volunteers, spectators, and teams to participate in this exciting event.

This event not only celebrates the spirit of innovation but also prepares future problem-solvers and leaders in the field of robotics. Through a series of competitive and collaborative activities, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their skills, exchange ideas, and advance their knowledge in science, technology, engineering, computing and mathematics.

History:
The VEX Robotics program in Maine traces its origins back to the 2008 season, launched with the support of the UMaine Black Bear Robotics Club. Initially established to contribute to robotics programs and assist in organizing statewide events hosted by schools, the program found strong support from the Black Bear Robotics volunteers. Many of the committee members, a majority of whom are UMaine alumni, began their journey as volunteers with Black Bear Robotics and have continued to actively support and contribute to the growth of the VEX Robotics program in the state.

About:
The VEX Robotics system challenges students to build and program robots for dynamic competitions. Each year, the games and challenges change, requiring teams to adapt and innovate. Opposing teams compete in alliances, forming new partnerships and collaborating with different teams. Success in VEX is categorized by effective teamwork and strategic problem-solving.

The Game

This year’s game is “High Stakes”, promising an exciting and competitive atmosphere. High Stakes is played on a 12’ x 12’ field. Two alliances, red and blue, each with two teams, compete in matches with a 15-second Autonomous Period and a 1:45 Driver Controlled Period. The goal is to score more points than the opposing alliance by scoring rings on stakes, placing mobile goals, and climbing at the end of the match.

Robotics Education

Robotics is vital for STEM education and young learners because it integrates science, technology, engineering, computing, and mathematics in an engaging and practical way. Through hands-on activities, students learn programming, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills that are essential in today’s technology-driven world. Robotics encourages creativity and innovation, as students design, build, and refine their projects. Additionally, it fosters teamwork and collaboration, as many robotics activities require working in groups to achieve common goals. By introducing robotics at a young age, we prepare future generations for advanced STEM fields and help them develop skills that are valuable in any career path.

Whether you want to support the competition through sponsorship, lend a hand as a volunteer, cheer on the participants as a spectator, or compete as part of a team, there are numerous ways to be a part of this vibrant community event. Your involvement helps foster STEM education and inspires future innovators and problem-solvers.

To donate online visit: our.umaine.edu/mcecrobotics

Sponsorship information

Whether you would like to support the competition through sponsorship, lend a hand as a volunteer, cheer on the participants as a spectator, or compete as part of a team, there are numerous ways to be a part of this vibrant community event. Your involvement helps foster STEM education and inspires future innovators and problem-solvers.

View Sponsorship Opportunities

To contact us write to: mcec@maine.edu

To donate online visit: our.umaine.edu/mcecrobotics

Event Details

Date: September 12th-14th, 2024

Venue/Location:
University of Maine
Collins Center for the Arts
2 Flagstaff Road Orono, Maine 04473

Event Schedule

  • Day 1: Check-in and inspection. Competition begins in the afternoon
  • Day 2: Qualifying and Skills Challenges
  • Day 3: Eliminations and Finals