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FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition has been called “The varsity sport for the mind.” Under strict rules, limited resources, and time constraints, teams of high school students are challenged to raise funds, design a team brand (Spartatroniks), hone teamwork skills, and build and program a robot to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. 

FIRST has four main competitions within its programs aimed at inspiring the youth of today. The Junior FIRST Lego League (Grades K-3) and the First Lego League (Grades 4-8) challenge its participants to learn critical thinking, technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership in in-demand jobs. Students also create lasting relationships with peers and members of their intended career field. FIRST creates an environment in which students can engage and gain experience in technological and scientific fields that have graduating.problems, and foster their imagination by competing in Lego-based competitions. The FIRST Tech Challenge and FIRST Robotics competition challenge participants to build a robot within certain parameters, which give students valuable technical knowledge. The programs are also ran worldwide, allowing participant exposure to other cultures and countries that may not have otherwise dealt with.