LSMSA Robotics Club receives continued support ahead of regional competition

Team #9761 will compete April 2–4 after learning the new game rules during a January kickoff event in Monroe. Since then, students have spent their time developing a strategy based on this year’s challenge, which requires robots to shoot game pieces into a basket suspended 15 feet in the air, navigate obstacles, and climb using a motorized pulley system to lift the robot completely off the ground.

The recent donation, made by representatives of Houston, TX-based companies Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc. and NexTier Oilfield Solutions Inc., provides additional tools and resources to assist during the final stages of preparation. The continued partnership reflects ongoing investment in the program’s development and long-term success.

This year’s robot features a four-wheel swerve drive system, allowing for greater maneuverability compared to previous tank-drive designs, and is programmed in Java using advanced control systems. Students also integrated key components such as a power distribution hub to manage the robot’s electrical systems.

Now in its third year, the team is considered a “veteran team.” Members reflected on the club’s growth, noting that what began as a learning experience during their sophomore year has developed into a more established and sustainable organization. Students have already expressed strong interest in joining, helping ensure the robotics club continues for future classes.

Participation in the program continues to grow, with 24 students registered and 15 set to attend the competition. In addition to the competing team, LSMSA plans to introduce a student spirit section this year to support the team during the event.

The competition follows a successful 2025 season, when the club first received its first donation of tools and parts that helped launch and sustain the program. With increased experience, expanded membership, and continued support from those same partners, the team enters this year’s competition with confidence and enthusiasm despite the challenges of the build season.