NCI’s Robotics Team Wins Challenge Cup

The Mid-Atlantic Broadband (MBC) Challenge Cup has a new home for the next year at New College Institute. The MBC Challenge Cup is a competition that rewards superior performance for FIRST FRC robotics teams in Southern Virginia. New College Institute’s team, STAGS, finished the highest of the 11 MBC-sponsored FRC robotics teams. In addition to $10,000, the STAGS gain possession of the MBC Challenge Cup trophy for one year. According to the team’s coach, Brian Pace, highlights from the competition season include being part of the winning alliance at the 2019 Richmond, Virginia district event; qualifying for the FIRST World Championship in Detroit, Michigan; and being selected by the number one seeded team in the Tesla Division at the World Championship.

“Our robotics team is the epitome of dedication. Our team includes many students and adult mentors. They sacrifice their personal time and selflessly share their knowledge for the betterment of our team. Congratulations to all of the 2018–2019 team members, mentors, and community supporters. And thanks to MBC for their commitment to expanding robotics throughout Southern Virginia,” said Melany Stowe, Assistant Director of Academics and Communications.

FIRST robotics competitions include the excitement of sport and the rigor of science. Under strict guidelines and the guidance of local volunteer mentors, including parents, engineers, teachers, and NCI staff the team of students build and program a robot to perform challenging tasks against a field of competitors from across the state and country. The team members learn and apply valuable STEM and life skills.

About Mid-Atlantic Broadband:

Mid-Atlantic Broadband Communities Corporation (MBC) is a non-profit 501(c)(4) organization, committed to bridging the digital divide, promoting economic development, reducing the burdens of government and reinvesting in communities. MBC accomplishes this by operating an advanced open-access fiber-optic network, providing wholesale telecommunications transport services, colocation, and tower leasing. Since its inception in 2004 and by offering a state-of-the-art fiber-optic network, MBC has supported the recruitment of major investments to southern Virginia including data centers, call center/operations centers, advanced manufacturing, research and development, and biotech industries. For more information, visit https://mbc-va.com/