Bethpage High School hosted the Seventh Annual Regal Eagle Rampage on Mar. 2, an event that welcomed 21 FIRST Robotics Competition teams from across the region. Sponsored by Optimum, the gathering provided a unique opportunity for teams, including Bethpage High School’s own Regal Eagles, to fine-tune their robots in a non-competitive environment ahead of their upcoming regional competitions.
Throughout the day, students worked on 23 robots, calibrating and practicing on a fully constructed wooden replica of the official FIRST Robotics Competition field. The event was not only a chance for high school students to collaborate and refine their designs but also an opportunity for younger students to experience the excitement of robotics. Teams from JFK Middle School, Central Boulevard School, Charles Campagne School and Kramer Lane Elementary set up tables showcasing their FIRST Lego League Challenge Robotics Teams, complete with robot demonstrations and presentation boards. The elementary and middle school students were given a glimpse into what awaits them at the high school level, inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators.
The day followed a structured schedule, beginning with an opening ceremony and calibration matches. In addition to the on-field action, students and guests were invited to attend the Women in STEMinar held in the STEM lab, where they engaged in discussions and presentations highlighting the role of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Lunch was served before the afternoon continued with practice matches, allowing teams to test their robots under simulated competition conditions. The event concluded with a closing ceremony that celebrated the progress made throughout the day.
This year’s challenge, “Reefscape,” presented teams with the task of working in alliances of three to score points by harvesting algae, represented by PVC pipes, placing coral on their reef and attaching to their barge before time expired. The Regal Eagle Rampage allowed teams to experiment with different strategies and make necessary adjustments before entering official competitions
The Regal Eagles, based at Bethpage High School, consist of 30 students in grades nine through twelve. As a FIRST Robotics team, they focus on fostering skills in engineering, outreach, marketing, computer-aided design and robot design. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, students develop into creative leaders and problem solvers, preparing for future careers in STEM fields and beyond. The team is guided by dedicated mentors Leon LaSpina, Eric Kay and Andrew Choi, who provide support and expertise as students navigate the challenges of robotics.
The Seventh Annual Regal Eagle Rampage was a resounding success, bringing together students, educators, and STEM enthusiasts for a day of collaboration, learning and excitement. As teams continue to prepare for their regional competitions, events like these serve as a crucial step in their journey toward innovation and excellence in robotics.
