Norwalk competes at VEX Robotics world championships

NORWALK — Norwalk High School's robotics teams wrapped up their competition at the VEX Robotics world championships tournament, which occurred this past week in Dallas, Texas. Three teams represented Norwalk, and they competed with and against other squads both nationally and internationally, including those from Australia, Canada, China, New Zealand, Ireland, Suriname and Vietnam. Norwalk's highest-placing team was Team3264C. The team of Chase Fox, Wyatt Fox, Hudson Barnes, Isaak White and Aidan Roberts placed 40th in their division. Each division had roughly 80 teams competing. "They had a rough start to their experience, but they put in the work to get better," Norwalk High School robotics adviser Nate Whaley said. "It was a great end to their season. They strived to get better and compete in every match." Team 3264Z consisted of seniors Grayson Kiser, Tyler Esbenshade and Thomas Chime. They placed 49th in their division. "These students should be proud to compete at their second consecutive world championship and finish with an overall winning record at this very hard competition," Whaley said. Also for Norwalk, Team 3264D of Sammi Chappell, Zade Oglesby, Jose Velasco and Kaiden Moskus competed in one of the toughest divisions at the championships. They finished 71st in their division. "With a record that does not reflect their performance, these students persevered with their effort and attitude," Whaley said. "With all of these members returning next year, the future is bright for them." Whaley also gave a shout-out the pit crew for the teams: Hailee Smith, Liam Hanna and Halle Barnes. "We thank them for their efforts in making sure teams are getting to their matches in time, coordinating and communicating with other teams and keeping the positive attitudes with matches going well," he said. Whaley was also appreciative of all those who helped donate for the teams to make the trip, as well as the parents, especially those who also went to the competition. "Without their support and raising these excellent young people, we would not be able to have the success that we have had," Whaley said. "These opportunities to work with and network are the skills that extend beyond the world of robotics."