Hidden Oaks School is celebrating a major milestone as its newest robotics team, the Mechanical Megalodons, clinched a regional championship victory in their very first year of competition—earning them a coveted spot at the upcoming state championship.
Competing in the FIRST LEGO League UnEarthed season, the Mechanical Megalodons impressed judges and fellow teams alike with their technical skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The regional win marks a remarkable debut for the team and places Hidden Oaks firmly on the state robotics map.
Behind the scenes, the team’s success was fueled by resilience and character as much as engineering prowess. When asked what stood out most about the team’s performance over the weekend, the team’s coach emphasized values beyond trophies and scores.
“What I am most proud of is who this team chose to be throughout the First LEGO League UnEarthed season competition,” the coach Mrs. Dubois said. “The Mechanical Megalodons showed incredible perseverance and determination, staying focused and paying close attention to detail even when challenges arose. They worked through problems thoughtfully, supported one another, and never gave up.”
The coach also highlighted the team’s commitment to the core principles of FIRST LEGO League, particularly gracious professionalism.
“Most of all, they demonstrated true gracious professionalism—encouraging other teams, celebrating others’ successes, and representing our school with kindness and respect. Their results were meaningful, but the character they displayed is what truly stands out.”
In addition to strong robot performance, the Mechanical Megalodons showcased an innovative project titled “Wristless,” which contributed to their regional championship and helped set them apart in a competitive field. The project reflects the team’s ability to blend creativity, research, and problem-solving—hallmarks of the FIRST LEGO League experience.
Looking ahead to the state championship, the coach sees this achievement not as a finish line, but as the beginning of a longer journey.
“As a coach, I’m excited to see this team continue to grow intellectually and take their innovative project, ‘Wristless,’ to the next level,” the coach shared. “I’m looking forward to exposing them to other incredible projects so they can learn, reflect, and refine their own ideas.”
The opportunity to compete at the state level will also allow the Mechanical Megalodons to test themselves against more experienced teams.
“I’m also eager to give them the opportunity to compete alongside more advanced robotics teams and observe their strategies, designs, and problem-solving approaches,” the coach said. “Watching this team grow over the course of the season—guiding them through the process and seeing them rise to new challenges—is the most rewarding part. Their growth is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see how far they go.”
As the Mechanical Megalodons prepare for the state championship, their first-year success stands as a testament to hard work, collaboration, and a strong foundation of values. Win or lose at the next level, Hidden Oaks has already found something just as important: a team that competes with heart, integrity, and a passion for learning.