WHAT: FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Engineering) Buckeye Regional Robotics Competition: “FIRST Overdrive”

WHEN: March 20-22

WHERE: Cleveland State University Wolstein Center

WHO: Teams from 46 high schools in Greater Cleveland and throughout Ohio, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin

WHY: Competing for the regional championship and other awards which leads up to the FIRST Championship Event in Atlanta in April

HOW: The teams will remotely guide the robots they designed and built themselves around a track, passing balls over or under an overpass and all the while working to keep their opponents from doing the same. Not only are there awards for earning the most points but also teams earn awards for innovation, industrial design, imagery, creativity, industrial safety, entrepreneurship, spirit, professionalism and more.

This competition provides students with a hands-on experience using what they are studying in science, technology, engineering and math. For many students, the excitement, intensity, learning and fun of the robotics competition leads to important decisions involving higher education and their future careers. It also builds self-esteem and self-confidence working side-by-side with teachers and mentors on a common goal.

Media interested in attending the Buckeye Regional, should contact Sally Harrington at 216-433-2037 or at 216-287-2316 (cell).

For more information about the Buckeye Regional, visit http://firstbuckeye.org/