Ages 12-18
It’s time to be a game changer. Are you up for the challenge?
Libyan Teams Registeration
*First time teams only. If you already have a team number, skip this. Register via the official FIRST FTC portal for a team number & to place any PITSCO orders through the FIRST Storefront if you wish
Our Qualifying tournaments are usually be held in Tripoli and Benghazi and Sabha and Gheryan. Then 1 Regional Championship in Tripoli for qualified teams from all qualifying tournaments with some international teams.
Due to COVID-19, there is a possibility any or all events will be either "remote" or in a physical venue. FIRST headquarters has built a remote platform for global competitions and further details will be posted as they come available. Teams should be prepared for either scenario - but the season will run as scheduled.
For All Events, each participant including students and coaches must download, complete & submit on tournament day:
The really cool thing about FIRST Tech Challenge is being part of a team. All skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical and non-technical. Read on for more about team basics, time frame, commitment, and skills required
What does every FIRST Tech Challenge team need?
- 2 or more adult Mentors who are willing and motivated to coach the team through the build and competition season, and beyond!
- Other adults can volunteer to help with administration, fundraising, community outreach, technical advising, and other tasks.
- A suitable meeting place and space to design and build a robot about the size of a microwave oven.
- A standard kit of robot parts and a common set of game and robot rules issued by FIRST Tech Challenge.
- A budget and a fundraising plan.
- The desire to learn, explore, strategize, build camaraderie, share ideas and talents, make new friends, be accepted, and HAVE FUN!
When does FIRST Tech Challenge happen?
The FIRST® Tech Challenge season in Libya begins in June, when teams generally form and registration opens. Season kick-off is in early September when the season's game is announced. The design and build season runs from September to end of March. Tournament season varies by region and can begin as early as January and continues through April. Regional Qualifying Event in Libya advance teams to the FIRST Championship (USA) at the end of July. Teams can get together for scrimmages as well, where teams participate, strategize, hone their skills, learn new technology, meet other teams, and have fun!
What is the time commitment?
Mentors or adult Volunteers meet with their team at least once per week during the build and competition season (September - April). Many mature teams also meet throughout the school year, and some compete in off-season events during the summer. You, your family, and your available free time can decide together how much time you can devote to the program.
As a team member, the same applies. Students meet at least once per week from Mid-September through April. Like any sport or other after-school activity, the more time you invest, the better you will become at your task(s).
Any special skills required?
All skill levels are welcomed and needed, technical and non-technical. Teams need all kinds of skills to succeed, so what are you good at? Chances are we have a job for you. And we’ll probably teach you a few new ones while you’re with us.
Student and adult team members are encouraged to bring any skills they already have, like programming, electronics, metalworking, graphic design, web creation, public speaking, videography, and many more. FIRST Tech Challenge welcomes every student, with or without special skills.
FIRST Tech Challenge gives middle and high school students and their adult mentors the opportunity to work and create together to solve a common problem. Teams are challenged to design and build a robot using a kit of parts and within a common set of rules to play a sophisticated field game. The robot game changes every season and is a blast!
FIRST redefines winning by rewarding teams for achievements both on and off the field − excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, Gracious Professionalism®, and outreach efforts are some of the award criteria. Winning is always secondary to the quality of the overall experience.
Remember: NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED AND YOU ARE NEVER ALONE
7 essential steps to starting a FIRST Tech Challenge team:
1. Gather support resources
Familiarize yourself with FIRST Tech Challenge by checking out the materials on our website and social media pages. Then locate your region’s Affiliate Partner or FIRST Senior Mentor. These people know the FIRST teams, participating schools, and FIRST-friendly businesses in your area. He or she can help you form a plan for getting your team funded, organized, and in touch with other teams in the area.
2. Enlist Coaches & Mentors
Each team needs two or more adult Mentors who are willing and motivated to coach the team through the build and competition season and beyond. Other adults can volunteer to help with administration, fundraising, community outreach, and other tasks.
3. Register and Pay
Once registered, your team becomes a part of the worldwide FIRST Tech Challenge community. You’ll begin receiving communications from FIRST, along with your team number in preparation for event registration in the fall.
4. Build your team
Find and invite a few students (maximum 15) who want to be part of a robotics team. Be sure to emphasize that no technical skills are required, just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Recruit all kinds of talents, not just engineering and electrical.
5. Fundraising
Your team will need to build a budget and fund their goals. Recruit local businesses to sponsor you. Many of them may already have a relationship with FIRST. We also have many fundraising opportunities you can explore, including grants for both rookie and veteran teams.
6. Learn about safety
At FIRST, student safety is always paramount. Every adult must become familiar with our Youth Protection Program (YPP). Take the time to watch our videos and read our youth protection materials.
7. Review Mentor and Team Resources
Part of the fun is designing and building your robot and FIRST provides a wealth of information in our Resource Library to help you. Find everything from technical guides, to fundraising ideas, or fun activities for your team.