About FRC in Maryland

FRC is the flagship program of US FIRST, combining the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules and limited time and resources, teams of students are challenged to raise funds, design a team brand, hone teamwork skills, and build and program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. Maryland FIRST serves as the operational partner, connecting teams with mentors, volunteers, and sponsors who make the season possible.

Each season culminates at the Chesapeake Regional, held at the XFINITY Center, where teams from Maryland and beyond compete for awards and a chance to advance to the FIRST Championship.

The FIRST Robotics Competition season begins each year with a global kickoff event that reveals the new game challenge. Maryland teams gather at local hub locations to watch the live broadcast, receive the season's kit of parts, and begin brainstorming their robot design. From that moment, teams have a compressed six-week build period to prototype, fabricate, program, and test their creation. Workshops and training sessions organized by Maryland FIRST help rookie and veteran teams alike navigate the engineering process, from mechanical design to electrical systems and autonomous programming. The intensity of build season fosters collaboration, creative problem-solving, and hands-on learning that prepares students for real-world STEM careers.

Beyond the robot itself, FRC teams develop a complete identity that includes branding, community outreach, and fundraising. Students take on roles ranging from project management and public relations to animation and website design, mirroring the structure of a small technology company. Maryland FIRST encourages teams to engage with their local communities through demonstrations, school presentations, and partnerships with businesses and civic organizations. These efforts help spread awareness of STEM education and inspire younger students to explore robotics. The teamwork and leadership skills gained through these activities are just as valuable as the technical knowledge, creating well-rounded participants who are ready for college and the workforce.

The competitive season culminates in the Chesapeake Regional, where Maryland teams face off alongside visiting squads from other states. Teams compete in qualification matches, form strategic alliances, and advance through elimination rounds in a high-energy arena atmosphere. Awards are presented not only for robot performance but also for engineering design, team spirit, and community impact. Top-performing teams may earn a spot at the FIRST Championship, where they compete on a global stage. Throughout the season, Maryland FIRST provides dedicated volunteers, mentors, and event staff who ensure that competitions run smoothly and that every participant has a positive, memorable experience.

Historical Results

Chesapeake Regional results have been documented since 2012. Below is a summary of past seasons with available data.