Maryville University Hosts FIRST LEGO League Competition

ST. LOUIS, MO (11/18/2009)(readMedia)-- Maryville University will host a day of qualifying rounds for the St. Louis FIRST LEGO League Robotics from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 22, in the Simon Athletic Center on the main campus. The competition involves more than 250 elementary and middle students from various schools throughout the St. Louis region.

"These are not children just building a robot in someone's basement," says Kathie Reuter, Missouri state partner and event manager. "In this program, students delve a lot further into research and innovation. We really push teamwork. Once you get into the real world, that's an important skill."

The public is invited to the event, but the best opportunities to see robots in action will be from approximately noon to 3 p.m., when teams guide their robots through the challenges of a pre-set obstacle course. Teams have worked on their robot creations for the past three months. Sixteen teams will progress to the state championship event held in January at Florissant Valley Community College.

During the FIRST LEGO League competition, teams of 9-to 14-year-olds design, build and program robots using LEGO MINDSTORM technology. Along with providing the opportunity to explore science and technology, the project helps students build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For best photography and video opportunities, team robot competition is planned for 12:15 - 3 p.m. in the Simon Athletic Center located on the northeast corner of Maryville University's campus.

About the Sponsors:

The event is sponsored by For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), an organization dedicated to inspiring students in engineering and technology fields. FIRST LEGO League is a partnership between FIRST and The LEGO Group. Nearly $12 million in college scholarships are made available through this program nationwide.

About Maryville University:

Founded in 1872, Maryville University is a four-year, private university located in west St. Louis County. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of America's Best Colleges in the Masters-Midwest category, Maryville University students may choose from 50 academic programs, including degrees at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels. Among recent graduates, 82 percent are employed or attending graduate school. More than 16,000 Maryville alumni work and live in the St. Louis region.

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