(Press Release) The Rockwall High School Robotics Team 1296, known as the Full Metal Jackets, attended the FIRST Robotics Competition World Championship in Houston from April 18 – April 21. The team ranked 45th in the Turing Division, but was selected as first pick for the 8th alliance. After beating the 1st seed alliance, the team went on to win 1st place in the Turing Division.

This was the first time in 17 years that the 8th alliance won the division at the FIRST World Championship, advancing the team to the ultimate finals known as “Einstein”. Einstein matches consisted of competing against the five other division winners in a round robin mini competition, where Team 1296 placed 6th in the world.

The team has attended the World Championship five times in their 14-year history: 2008, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018. The team went further than ever before in Rockwall High School history and in addition, the Full Metal Jackets helped seven teams while at the World Championship.

The Full Metal Jackets will be participating in one additional competition, the UIL State Championship from May 17 – May 19. To find out more about the team visit www.rockwallrobotics.com.

Submitted press release by Hannah Cowgill, Full Metal Jackets EVP Public Relations.