FIRST Tech Challenge

FIRST Tech Challenge students learn to think like engineers as they design, build and code robots to compete in an alliance-based format against other teams. Robots are built using a reusable platform, powered by Android technology and can be programmed at various levels using Java-based coding.

2024-2025 Season

INTO THE DEEP takes teams on an underwater-inspired robotics adventure! This season challenges students to design, build and program robots to navigate a deep-sea-themed competition field, completing tasks that simulate ocean exploration and resource collection. Get ready to dive into problem-solving, teamwork and advanced robotics in INTO THE DEEP!

FAQ

When will the 2025–2026 season begin?

FIRST will launch the season by providing detailed information about the robot game in early August. Wisconsin regional tournaments start in late October or early November, sectionals happen in mid-December, and the season wraps up with the State Championship in January.

How do I set up a team?

You need at least two kids and two adults to start a team. Then, you’ll need to register your team at firstinspires.org. Once you’re registered, your coaches will automatically get signed up for our weekly email newsletter where you’ll get additional information and access to our weekly Zoom meeting. Teams must be registered with FIRST in order to attend any Wisconsin tournaments.

How much does it cost to have a team?

First, you'll need to buy or have access to a LEGO robot. Then, each team will need to pay a registration fee of $250 (plus $14 S&H), buy a Challenge Set for $95 (plus $15 S&H), and pay a $175 fee to participate in a regional tournament. Teams that advance beyond regionals will pay a one-time additional fee of $40. (These prices are from the 2024-2025 season; they may change.)

What support will teams get from BadgerBots?

We communicate frequently with team coaches in multiple different ways.

If you have a specific question, email us at fllteams@badgerbots.org or join us on Slack. Slack is a messaging app where our head referees and judging advisor are often available and you can have conversations with other coaches and volunteers. You will need to be invited to join our Slack channel; email us at fllteams@badgerbots.org to get an invite.
For weekly updates, make sure you’re subscribed to our email newsletter. When you register your team with FIRST, we will automatically subscribe your coach1, coach2 and admin contacts. Anyone else can sign up through our subscription page. You can also find past issues in the Newsletter Archive below.
To connect with other coaches and mentors, join our weekly Zoom call. We typically host these on Mondays at 7:30 p.m., and frequently have referees and judge volunteers on the call to answer questions. We record these calls so you can watch them even if you can’t attend. The Zoom link is provided in our weekly email newsletter and recordings are available on our YouTube channel.