Practice At Sonny Carter Training Facility

Yesterday, Texas Torque went down to Sonny Carter Training Facility to get some pre-IRI practice in before game day. The field and refreshments were graciously provided by Team 118, who also opened up their entire headquarters for several other teams. In addition to the Robonauts and ourselves, Discobots,  CRyptonite, and Spectrum were all in attendance.

Whether it was playing mock defense on each other, talking about the upcoming event, or getting another look at these incredible machines, we had a lot of fun and are excited to see everyone at IRI. Good luck to all teams competing!

Texas Torque at WOW

Texas Torque was delighted to spend July 8th and June 24th at the Wonders of The Woodlands Camp demonstrating our world champion robot, Sonic. Several students went over to The United Methodist Church to help get the word out about STEM and FIRST. Elementary and middle school students who were at the camp had the opportunity drive the robot and learn about electronics and engineering. We were also excited to get some information to students interested in FLL.

Link for those interested in WOW: http://www.wowsciencecamp.com/

 

Fourth of July Parade

Texas Torque members took to the road this Independence Day to take part in the 17th annual South County Fourth of July Parade, held in The Woodlands, TX.

Torque students and mentors completed the 1.3 mile parade while talking to spectators about FIRST’s mission and the team’s accomplishments. There were quite a few questions about both the robot and FIRST as a whole, including a few inquiries about FIRST Lego League FIRST Tech Challenge. This year’s robot, Sonic, was also on display, shooting frisbees and maneuvering around while sporting patriotic colors, much to the thrill of the crowd.

The event as a whole was highly enjoyable for all who were present, and we hope that we will be able to participate again next year.

Texas Torque members Henning Skau (left) and Brian Wang (right) travel in the parade with Sonic in tow.

Lead Mentor Retires From Academy of Science and Technology


On Tuesday, May 28th, The Academy of Science and Technology honored Scott Rippetoe by holding a reception for his retirement. He has been teaching for thirty years, with twenty two years at the Academy. While he will be missed greatly in the classroom, he will continue to affect students through Texas Torque as the official robotics coach in Conroe Indepenedent School District. Events of the night included speeches, presentation of roses, and at the end Mr. Rippetoe took control of the robot for the first time this season, in which he entertained and impressed the crowd. Our team is eternally grateful for all his time spent working for the team, for leading us to the World Championships this year and for continuing his mentorship and friendship with each and every member of the team.

Texas Torque Featured on Local Fox Morning News

Texas Torque made an appearance this week on Local Fox 26 News as part of a post-Champs celebration. The team was present for a 6 minute news spot in which the members were interviewed and the robot was demonstrated on video. As an added surprise, Lead Mentor Scott Rippetoe received a stylish red Mohawk (Pictures Below) as part of an agreement: the team made him promise to get a Mohawk if they made it to the Einstein field at Championships. So far, he has gotten a lot of compliments.
The full video is linked below:
Interview with Fox