SparX Wraps Up Stellar Season
Each January, FIRST® Robotics Competition presents high school teams with a new engineering challenge that requires the design, programming, and construction of industrial-sized robots for alliance-based competitive play. Guided by mentors throughout the season, students develop technical, engineering, and problem-solving skills while strengthening teamwork, leadership, and communication abilities. In addition to competition, teams pursue fundraising efforts, engage in community outreach, and promote broader appreciation for STEM education.Webster Schroeder and Webster Thomas high schools Team 1126 SparX Robotics, founded in the 2002-2003 competition year, continues to build on over two decades of innovation and competitive excellence. With 24 competition seasons under our belt, SparX has participated in 52 events and earned 30 awards, an achievement that reflects the dedication, resilience, and growth of the team year after year.
The 2026 season began at the Finger Lakes Regional, held March 11–14 at the Gordon Field House at Rochester Institute of Technology during week two of competition. Competing against 55 teams, SparX Robotics finished with a strong 7-3-0 record in qualification matches, ranking 14th overall. The team advanced into the double elimination bracket and battled through nine matches before being eliminated in Round 4. Notably, the team maintained a clean record with zero disqualifications, demonstrating both strong performance and disciplined play.
Like many teams competing early in the season, SparX took the opportunity between events to significantly improve its robot. This effort resulted in a rebuilt machine they named “Reboot,” reflecting both the technical upgrades and the renewed momentum of the team.
That work paid off at the New York Tech Valley Regional, held April 14–18 at MVP Arena in Albany during week seven, an event that hosted approximately 60 teams. Competing with Reboot, SparX once again delivered a strong performance, finishing qualification matches with an 8-3-0 record and earning the 14th seed. The team advanced deep into the double elimination bracket, competing in eight playoff matches before being eliminated just prior to the final rounds. Throughout the competition, SparX maintained a perfect record of zero disqualifications.
One of their playoff matches can be viewed here: https://frc-events.
Across both competitions, SparX demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and steady growth. The transition to Reboot exemplifies the team’s ability to learn quickly, iterate effectively, and return stronger—qualities that will continue to drive the team's success in future seasons.
To get involved as a mentor or sponsor, or to donate to the team (robots can cost $20,000 or more to build), or if you know of a Webster CSD high school student who would like to join the team, please contact david_schenk@webstercsd.org or keith_karnisky@webstercsd.org. If your student wants to join, SparX can find a spot for them and their interests.
