CHS robotic team finishes as one of world's best

PUNTA GORDA — After advancing for the first time since 2017, Charlotte High School’s robotics team Golden Fish swam to new heights at the FIRST Tech Challenge CENTERSTAGE World Championships in Houston, Texas last month.

Competing against top teams from around the globe, Golden Fish placed 13th out of 56 teams in the Franklin division, finishing with a seven-win, three-loss record.

The team ranked 57th overall out of 224 teams competing at the championship, marking a significant improvement from its previous world ranking of 116th and positioning them as the top Florida team at the event.

In March, the team had finished first in the FIRST Tech state championships, beating out 56 teams to secure a top spot at the World Championships.

At the conclusion of the FTC world championships, Golden Fish ranked first in the world in end game average for robot hanging and drone scoring and earned the third place Innovate Award in the Franklin division.

Golden Fish’s design of Stinger — the team’s 34-pound, black and yellow robot — featured three arms, fast drivetrain and custom parts, impressing judges with extensive 3-D CAD models that showcased the most innovative and creative robot design in their division.

CHS robotics coach Chris George shared his excitement for the team’s final performance and placement among more than 7,000 teams worldwide, stating “history was made” again for the Tarpons.

George said this is the sixth time a CHS team has advanced to World Championships in the past 12 years.

“Our team gave their best effort this season and represented Charlotte High School with Tarpon Pride,” he said. “I’m very proud of our robotics members who were dedicated to the team all season long. We competed with such confidence against the best.”

Charlotte County Public Schools Superintendent Mark Vianello extended his congratulations to the six-member team in a news release last week.

“Our students have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication and innovation throughout the competition, and they have represented Charlotte High School with pride,” Vianello said.

Golden Fish is already gearing up for the next season this month, George said, with a specific objective in mind.

“The goal for next season is to return to Worlds,” he said.