Team Name:	Big Brains
Robot Name:	Mozes
Program:	V5RC
Active:	No
Grade Level:	High School
Location:	Pike Road, Alabama, United States

About the Team

Big Brains 47969A was founded in 2017 at Pike Road Schools. Although we spent the previous year casually playing with VEX parts our assistant principal had acquired, we didn't truly dive into competition mode until a year later. The turning point for us came in 5th grade when we journeyed to BrewTech, witnessing our very first Vex Robotics Tournament. It was eye-opening. While we were just spectators, the excitement and challenge urged us to join the fun the following year. With newfound enthusiasm, we approached our assistant principal, who shared our vision and enthusiasm, registering us for the next year's competition. That time in 5th grade was foundational — we devoted our time to understanding VEX robotics components through hands-on experimentation. By 6th grade, we were constructing our first claw bot, a learning tool that deepened our understanding of VEX pieces. Our first competition was where it had all started — BrewTech. We didn’t sweep the competition (beat everyone); finishing last, winning not a single match. But our spirits remained high, thanks to our coach's advice: "Expect everything that can go wrong, to do so." We took this experience as a learning opportunity, pinpointing areas of improvement for our robot design. While others might have seen our limited workspace – a modest six-by-six closet tucked behind the assistant principal's office – as a hindrance, we viewed it as a test to our commitment. Despite space constraints and a coach as new to VEX Robotics as we were, we managed a remarkable win, winning a tournament and gaining a spot at the state-level competition. Though we didn't qualify for the world championship, our journey had only begun. Our 7th-grade year began in a dedicated robotics class, a spacious work area, and a new coach – Mrs. Kenny. Who was also new to VEX like us, she went above and beyond her call of duty, ensuring we maximize our potential. Our 8th-grade year stands out as a trophy year. Thanks to Mrs. Kenny's dedication and the BrewTech league play matches, we grew exponentially. Competing weekly, we absorbed invaluable lessons from seasoned peers. Arthur, from the Catholic robotics team, became a mentor of sorts, sharing intricate VEX tips and tricks that helped more than we would ever understand. With every year that rolls by, our passion and expertise in VEX robotics only grows. We eagerly await the "Over Under" season, anticipating the new challenges and learnings it will bring.

About this Season

Tournaments Results Bots a the Fair - Montgomery Oct 14, 2023 Awards - None Playoffs - QF Rank in Quals - 10 Rank in Skills - 6 RAM Robotics Over Under - Headland Nov 04, 2023 Awards - Tournament Champion Playoffs - F Rank in Quals - 14 Rank in Skills - 2 VEX Bot Trot on the Plains- Auburn Nov 11, 2023 Awards - Excellence Award and Tournament Champion Playoffs - F Rank in Quals - 4 Rank in Skills - 3 LAMP & Friends - Montgomery Dec 02, 2023 Awards - Tournament Champion and Design Award Playoffs - F Rank in Quals - 14 Rank in Skills - 3 VEX at the Tech - Montgomery Jan 20, 2024 Awards - Excellence Award, Tournament Champion and Skills Champion Playoffs - F Rank in Quals - 1 Rank in Skills - 1 Gateway to the West Signature - West Virginia Feb 2-3,2024 Awards - Build Award Playoffs - SF Rank in Quals - 17 Rank in Skills - 5