Robot wars

During the 2015 VEX Robotics World Championships, held April 14 through April 18 in Louisville, Ky., East County students showcased their love of robots while taking home top honors.

A five-student team from Nolan Middle School, dubbed the “Vexperts,” took home first place for the Promo Video Challenge, earning them a $750 prize to be used toward new robotic equipment. 

Students on the team include  Ahamd Ibsais, Suchir Patel, Angelo LaFrese, Luka Torralva and Trey Osborne.

Haile Middle School teacher Maureen Hudson’s four teams from Manatee County also performed well.

Team 8899Y, consisting of students Devon Summerville, Katie Hartley, Griffin Hudson, Jake Whiddon, Michael Kisida and Grant Trautweiler, won the VEX IQ Excellence Award and also placed second for best booth design. They also placed sixth in the robot tournament.