Half Hollow Hills Robotics Teams Headed For L.I. Finals

Members of Half Hollow Hills Women in Science and Engineering robotic team celebrate their victory in last week’s robotic tournament. Photo/Half Hollow Hills School District

Half Hollow Hills School District will be well represented at the FIRST Tech Challenge Long Island championship on Sunday as it’s sending a trio of teams to compete.

The teams, 7407 Team Vega, 8109 Rise Robotics, and 8110 WiSE, or Women in Science and Engineering, each punched their ticket to the championship after winning their respective competitions during the tournament on Jan. 27 and 28 at Sewanhaka High School in Floral Park.

“We are so proud of our teams that are advancing to the championship,” advisor for the Half Hollow Hills Robotics Program Caryn Meirs said. “All of our teams showed gracious professionalism, dedication and an amazing work ethic as they went through the competition.”

In addition, two Half Hollow Hills students were acknowledged as FIRST Tech Challenge Dean’s List semifinalist for their technical expertise, increased awareness of robotics and team leadership.

Kevin Moran, captain of team 8109, and Eric Stern, co-captain of team 8108, were elected by their peers and, if selected as finalists, could advance to the national finals during April in Detroit, Michigan.

“The team is super stoked, and we can’t wait to compete in our first championship,” Moran said.

The Long Island championship will be played this Sunday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at Smithtown High School West.

—CONNOR BEACH