For the third consecutive year, the Reynolds Reybots, a robotics team from Reynolds Secondary School in Saanich, has earned a coveted spot in the FIRST world championships in Houston, Texas.
The Reybots' 2024-2025 season has been marked with significant accomplishments.
In February, they clinched the Inspire Award at the British Columbia and Yukon FIRST tech challenge championship held at St. Margaret's School.
This award is presented to teams that exemplify the core values of FIRST, demonstrating excellence in robot design, community outreach, and overall impact. It serves as the highest honour in FIRST robotics, recognizing teams that act as ambassadors for the program and inspire others through their actions.
"If you would've told me three years ago that we accomplished this feat, I wouldn't have believed you," said Grade 12 student Nick Bernhardt. "We all work so well together, and everyone on the team has helped us achieve this milestone."
The Inspire Award earned the Reybots an invitation to the FIRST world championship, scheduled for April 16 to 19 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.
Beyond the team accolade, an individual member was also recognized for exceptional contributions.
Grade 11 student Joel Rider, was honoured with the FIRST Dean’s List Provincial Finalist Award, acknowledging outstanding leadership and commitment to the principles of FIRST.
Rider, who has been a member of the Reybots for several years said this was a big highlight of his time with the club, and a great honour to receive along with the team award.
"It honestly was just a great surprise to hear that I was getting this nomination," said Rider. "To be honoured by my teacher and peers is something that I won't forget from my Grade 11 year.'
Teacher Eric Van Moll says nominating Joel was a no-brainer.
"Joel brings the best from our program. He exemplifies everything that you would want out of a leader,' said Van Moll. "His nomination for the award came because of his selflessness, respect for robotics, and of course being a very talented member. He is beyond his years with maturity, and we are lucky to have him on our team."
While the team is proud of their season so far, they have set one main goal for Houston.
"We gained valuable experience in the past couple of years going to this competition," said Bernhardt. "Collectively, we are aiming for the Think Award at worlds."
The Think Award recognizes the team that best demonstrates the engineering design process during the build season, as reflected in their portfolio.
This international event gathers top youth robotics teams from around the globe to celebrate achievements in STEM and engage in high-level competition.
Participating in the world championships entails significant expenses, with the cost of the trip nearing $2,500 per person
To support the journey, the Reybots have initiated several fundraising activities, including a car wash on March 29, a bottle drive on April 5, and a Shred-a-thon on May 10 – all at the school on 3963 Borden St. Additionally, they have launched a GoFundMe campaign to garner financial support from the broader community.
To learn more or to donate, visit reybots.ca
