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Robot battle: Edgewater students take on the best in Philippines robotics challenge

Laura PondWanneroo Times

A TEAM of four Edgewater students battled it out against nearly 30 countries at a robotics challenge in the Philippines last month.

Year 8 Mater Dei College students Andre Desveaux, Maximus Conti Nibali, Kurt Andersen and Daniel Fazari, who are part of the school’s Lego club, were selected to represent Australia at the First Lego League Philippine Islands Invitational competition.

The boys practiced for four hours per day in the lead up to the two-day event, which tested their robotics engineering skills and creativity.

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Daniel said it was a great opportunity to meet people from across the world.

“We set up our Australian stall and we weren’t able to go anywhere because everyone wanted photos with us all day long,” he said.

“It was an experience that we will never forget.

“The team went very well and while we were over there it gave us a chance to gain different ideas and skills about our robot and programs.”

Though tiring, teammate Andre agreed it was an amazing experience and was proud of the team’s 15th place.

“Our first robot run was not the best due to a malfunction, so we didn’t do so well first up, but we recovered,” he said.

“I feel like we did the best we could and we all had lots of fun, we also learnt how good the competition is and how to work as a team.”

Parent Samantha Andersen travelled with the team and said the intense competition featured intricate robots and elaborate presentations.

“Our team did well under pressure and gave it their all,” she said.

“They left the Philippines with a new perspective and in return they showed true Australian spirit both through determination and a sense of fun.”