FRC Team 1279, Cold Fusion, achieved a highly encouraging result at a recent preseason robotics competition. The competition served as an invaluable training ground for the team's new members and drive team, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming official FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) season.

The team, composed of students from Immaculata High School, demonstrated significant growth and competitive spirit throughout the event. Cold Fusion entered the playoff bracket after a solid performance in the qualification matches, finishing with a 4-4 record and ranking 10th overall out of 24 teams.

During alliance selection, the team was chosen by the 5th-ranked alliance, partnering with Team 8117 the Easton RoboRovers and Team 6897 Astraea Robotics. The alliance kicked off the double-elimination playoffs with a victory over the 4th-ranked alliance, winning 73-63. Their momentum was challenged in the next round against the 1st-ranked alliance, where, despite an impressive offensive effort including a score of nine algae (the game's scoring object), Cold Fusion fell short.

Moving to the losers' side of the bracket, the team was resilient, prevailing in a tight, back-and-forth match against the 7th-ranked alliance with a heroic last-second algae score, securing a narrow 93-91 victory. Cold Fusion’s run was ultimately ended by the 3rd-ranked alliance in the following round, but the team's strong showing resulted in a highly respectable 4th-place tournament finish.

Mr. Simon, Head of FRC Team 1279 Cold Fusion, expressed immense pride in the team's performance, particularly highlighting the development of new talent. "I call this preseason competition a success," said Mr. Simon. "Our new drive team improved tremendously as the competition went on, which sets us up nicely for this season. Our new members got their first taste of competition and FIRST as a whole."

The event also provided a positive platform for student leadership, as team operator Ava was interviewed on the competition's live stream, professionally representing the Cold Fusion program.

With this successful preseason competition behind them, FRC Team 1279 Cold Fusion looks forward to a promising official season, utilizing the skills and experience gained to prepare for future challenges.

FRC Team 1279 Cold Fusion is the FIRST Robotics Competition team based in Somerville, NJ, dedicated to inspiring young people in science and technology. The team operates under the guidance of mentors and is proud to be part of the FIRST Mid-Atlantic District. They are sponsored by Johnson & Johnson, OnlineMedals.com, Valiant Home Remodelers, Gene Haas Foundation, Fusion Medical Products, DoDSTEM, Nokia Bell Labs, Picatinny STEM.

Thank you to our Premier Sponsors!