Local Robotics Team Wins Big, Now Asking for Community’s Help

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. (KEYT) - A local robotics team, "Team Octobots" – comprised of Santa Barbara County high school students – took home second place at the FIRST Robotics Southern California State Championship in Anaheim earlier this month.

Over 30 high school students battled their way to the finals, beating out higher seated teams. They lost only to the third globally ranked "Team High Tide."

In a press release, team captain and Dos Pueblos High School senior, Zeo Pereira, shared what this win means to him.

"That moment meant a lot to me, especially after a season of early mornings on school nights, up until 3:00am at robotics, and then back to school at 9:00am for several days at a time. It was a big mental battle. I’m proud of the growth our team has shown.”

Now, the team is turning its sights to the FIRST Robotics World Championship in Houston, Texas, set for April 28-May 2. The call has gone out for community help in getting all team members to the competition. The team hopes to raise $50,000 dollars to cover the travel costs.

If you would like to support the team, visit their Give Butter page to make a donation.

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