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Class of 2021
Saturday, May 4, 2019

Nemesis lifts off at the Detroit World Championships

From April 24 through April 27, 408 of the most elite First Robotics Competition teams converged at the Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan for the largest event of the year; the FIRST Championship! For the eighth consecutive season, Nemesis qualified and competed with these international, prestigious teams. 

As the first day of the tournament began, Nemesis prepared for qualification matches by setting up their pit station, participating in practice matches, and pre-scouting other teams. Tirelessly working, Nemesis ensured that all of these tasks were completed thoroughly, ultimately preparing them for take off.

Following April 24, Nemesis competed in their qualification matches. Competing in the Carson Division, Nemesis contested with 67 other teams, aiming to achieve the number one rank. Throughout 10 qualification matches, Nemesis consistently fought hard, putting up impressive statistics across major categories.

Throughout the competition, there was much excitement as team members had the opportunity to partake in many activities in the Cobo Center, mostly revolved around science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). These included listening to guest lectures, visiting the amazing Innovation Faire, and connecting with diverse teams. 

After two days of 114 qualification matches, the stage intensified as the alliance selection process was to take place the following morning. Despite the fear of not getting selected, Nemesis remained calm and collected, letting its hard work determine its fate. 

Prior to the alliance selection process, members maintained keeping their composure. One senior, Rahul Sawant stated, “ Our work speaks for itself. We’ve given our best efforts and have done a great job. Now all we can do is wait.”

During the second round of the alliance selection, Nemesis erupted from the stands as they were invited to join forces with the sixth alliance. Graciously accepting, this alliance was led by FRC 4362 Gems, who selected 1768 RoboChiefs in the first round, and eventually completed the alliance by taking 3314 Mechanical Mustangs. 

Entering their first elimination match, the sixth alliance remained focused on implementing a successful strategy. During this match, the sixth alliance competed to the best of their abilities, but came up short, losing by a fine margin. Following this loss, Nemesis regrouped with their alliance to develop a new strategy. Approaching their second quarterfinal match, Nemesis concentrated on keeping their season alive, and giving their alliance the opportunity to potentially advance in the competition. 

Finally, the second match began with the alliance attempting to score points in the sandstorm round. As the match continued, Nemesis put its maximum effort to do whatever it took to win this match. From playing defense to placing pieces, Nemesis showed its commitment to the alliance. Similarly, their alliance partners also displayed tremendous efforts. Unfortunately, the sixth alliance lost this match, ending their 2019 competition season. Despite being eliminated, Nemesis continued to prove itself as a dominant force as they were semifinalists in two events, quarter finalists in one other event, and the alliance captain of the winning team at one event. Having a successful competition season, Nemesis will look forward to replicating their success by competing in multiple off-season events soon.

Thank you to our proud sponsors Robbinsville High School, Navair, Picatinny Arsenal, Lockheed Martin, DoDStem, Bristol-Myers Squibb, CCL Label, Investors Foundation, Nordson, New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists, Johnson & Johnson, Robbinsville Education Association, Sharbell Development, RAS, Robbinsville Education Foundation, Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, EAG Laboratories, DesignTree, CCC, Gilbane, Triangle Copy, SkyLink Technology, Inc., Coldwell Banker, Church & Dwight, and the family and friends of Nemesis.