Over the 2 weekends of March break, Lake Effect Robotics - Team 2708 was busy competing in their 2 regional events - first at Durham College in Oshawa, followed by Nipissing University in North Bay! 

DURHAM COLLEGE - OSHAWA (Mar 13-15)

The unproven robot got off to a slow start as the team gained valuable experience during the opening day matches.  With improved performance on the second day, the team placed 26th overall (out of 28 teams) with a record of 3 wins and 9 losses and was selected, surprisingly, by Alliance #6 for their 3-team alliance in the double-elimination playoffs.  Working alongside team captain Team 5032 “The Falcons” (from Mississauga) and Team 5409 “The Chargers”(from Oakville), Alliance 6 made it through to round 3, match 9 before being eliminated in a close match 189-169.

In addition, Lake Effect Robotics ended up winning the "Gracious Professionalism" award, given to the team whose students embody great sportsmanship and show respect and kindness to others both on and off the field.  What the judges said: "No matter the weather, this team embodies sportsmanship.  They have graciously provided their support to stitch up other teams on and off the field.  Hats off to this tight-knit group for EFFECT-ively demonstrating gracious professionalism.  Congratulations Team 2708"!  In the end, Lake Effect Robotics finished 23rd overall with 17 District points.

"Gracious Professionalism" Award Winners at Durham College Event

NIPISSING UNIVERSITY - NORTH BAY

Following a busy week during March Break making several improvements to the robot, the hard work paid off at Nipissing University with much-improved performance.  Also benefiting from a more favourable schedule, Lake Effect Robotics found itself at or near the top of the standings for much of Day 1.  At the end of the 12-match qualification round, Team 2708 found itself in 8th position out of 25 teams with a 7-5 record and was the Alliance 6 team captain.  Teaming up with Team 7712 (from Scarborough) and Team 2706 "Merge Robotics" (from Ottawa), again the alliance made it through to round 3 before being eliminated once again in match 9.

In addition, Lake Effect Robotics won the "Team Spirit" award, given to the team who displays extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit. Here is what the judges said: “This team has layers. You’ll dig their style! Erupting with enthusiasm, this down-to-earth team can weather any storm. They shower FIRST core values at competitions and within their community. This tight-knit team is in their purple era. Congratulations Team 2708!”  In the end, Lake Effect Robotics finished 10th overall with 31 District points.

With a 2-event total of 48 District points, Lake Effect Robotics has officially qualified for the Ontario Provincial Championship to be held in Niagara Falls from April 16-19!  At that event, the top 100 teams in Ontario will compete to see who advances to the World Championships later in April in Houston.  As other teams are still competing in events until the second week of April, the final Provincial rankings are not yet available; however, it's expected the team will finish in the top 2/3.

Lake Effect Robotics is very grateful for the support! The K-F Rotary club logo is prominently displayed both in the pit area and on the event website, and the club is mentioned as one of the primary sponsors as part of the team's introduction at each competition.  Wishing Team 2708 a successful competition in Niagara Falls!

• During the 2025-26 Bingo! year (ending March 31, 2026), 65% of club members actively volunteered for 27 regular + 5 extra shifts
  • Many thanks to all involved for your dedication, commitment and excellent performance!
• Annual Charitable Gaming proceeds from Bingo! are expected to total about $40,000 - a club record and 11.6% more than last year!
• Each volunteer hour at Bingo! raises about $315 to benefit local community projects and youth development programs
• The club's Bingo license was renewed for 2026-27 with 40 shifts assigned - a 48% increase!
  • most shifts on Fridays at 4:00-6:00 pm, with a very few on Saturdays
• Expected proceeds from Bingo! this coming year are forecast to exceed $50,000 - another record, enabling the club to increase its impact in the community!
• New volunteers are always welcome - if you would like to join the winning team, please speak with Don P
  • expected time commitment is only a single 2-hour shift once every 2 months
• Plan on coming out on April 29 to celebrate the success of the Club's primary fundraising activity this year at the The SocialYGK in Play! Gaming & Entertainment Centre (1600 Bath Rd) for the end of month Pub Night.  Details on the Club website.  Mark your calendars!