Montini Catholic’s Robotics Teams have officially wrapped up an exciting and competitive season, highlighted by a strong showing at the prestigious VEX Robotics Illini Cornfield Clash held February 7 at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Two Bronco teams​,​ Horsepower and Steel Stampede​,​ competed against 38 of the top robotics teams from across the state.

Team Horsepower, comprised of Anya Dhir, Thomas Salem, Evan Aumann, Blake Morton, Aidan Buhay, Molly Felice, Zach Yount, Brianna Konopacz, and Lucas Van Witzenburg, advanced to the playoff rounds and earned the prestigious Judge’s Award. This honor is presented to a team that distinguishes itself through exceptional effort, perseverance, strong teamwork​ and effective communication​.

Steel Stampede, featuring Julian Reyes, Alexander Rivera, Ben Conway, Gavin Conway, and Franklin Barnes, delivered a strong performance as well, finishing 18th in the highly competitive Skills Competition.

On Saturday, February 21​st, ​t​he teams delivered another strong performance at the Von Steuben Push Back Competition, competing against 24 talented teams from across the region.​ Steel Stampede, turned in an impressive showing during qualification rounds, earning a 7th-place ranking heading into the playoffs. ​ Both Montini teams advanced to the quarterfinals, competing together in the elimination rounds​.

​"Both ​o​f our teams demonstrated tremendous growth at the Von Steuben competition​,​" said Robotics Coach, Mr. Don Krystof.  "They carefully analyzed their robots’ weaknesses from the previous tournament and implemented thoughtful modifications that led to greater success. I’m truly happy and proud of the proactive, problem-solving approach they took.​ It has been a great season."  

VEX Robotics competitions help students develop STEM skills, like questioning, experimenting and learning in a fun environment.  The competitions also help students develop communication, collaboration and time-management skills.