Video Teaser Offers Game Hints; Urges Students to Join Competition by Starting FIRST Robotics Competition Team

MANCHESTER, N.H.--FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), an international, K-12 not-for-profit organization founded to inspire young peoples interest and participation in science and technology, revealed the name of the 2016 FIRST Robotics Competition game, FIRST STRONGHOLD, with the release of a video teaser.

Dubbed a varsity Sport for the Mind, FIRST Robotics Competition combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Its the only school sport where all members are guaranteed to turn pro if they choose. Teams of 10 or more high-school students (age 14-18/grades 9-12) are challenged to build and program a robot to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors, raise funds, design a team "brand," and hone teamwork skills.

"The FIRST Robotics Competition offers an experience as close to real-world business development and engineering management as a student can get. Its much more than robots. The program instills 21st century life skills such as problem solving, time management, conflict resolution, and communication that todays young people need when entering the workforce," said FIRST President, Donald E. Bossi. "FIRST STRONGHOLD will provide a whole new set of thrilling challenges. Were excited to see the innovative ways students will tackle the game."

In 2016, more than 3,000 teams comprised of over 78,000 high school students from around the world will compete for glory and bragging rights in FIRST STRONGHOLD. In just six weeks, teams will build, program and test robots with the guidance of adult Mentors.

Teams will compete with their robots as family and friends cheer from the stands at over 120 multi-day events worldwide - all leading up to the 2016 FIRST Championship at the Edward Jones Dome, April 27-30 in St. Louis. All FIRST events are free and open to the public.

"Were very excited about the 2016 season," said Frank Merrick, director, FIRST Robotics Competition. "Weve designed this years game to inspire, challenge, and surprise people both on the field and off. Whether youre new to FIRST, a veteran team, or a spectator, you will want to see FIRST STRONGHOLD."

Details of the game will be unveiled at the FIRST Robotics Competition Kickoff on January 9, 2016. For more information about the Kickoff event, check back here.

So build your champion. Rally your kingdom. And prepare for FIRST STRONGHOLD by joining FIRST Robotics Competition: http://www.usfirst.org/frc2016.

About FIRST
Accomplished inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in Manchester, N.H., FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, and engineering. With support from over 200 of the Fortune 500 companies and more than $22 million in college scholarships, the not-for-profit organization hosts the FIRST Robotics Competition for students in Grades 9-12; FIRST Tech Challenge for Grades 7-12; FIRST LEGO League for Grades 4-8; and Junior FIRST LEGO League for Grades K-3. Gracious Professionalism is a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community. To learn more about FIRST, go to www.usfirst.org.