GERSTELL ACADEMY
LEADERSHIP • HONOR • COURAGE

Upper School Robotics Team Shines at FIRST Chesapeake Decode Qualifiers

2/3/2026

The Upper School Robotics Team, FTC 6390, delivered an outstanding performance across two consecutive weekends at the FIRST Chesapeake Decode Qualifiers. Competing at Francis Scott Key High School in Union Bridge on Saturday, January 24 and Saturday, January 31, the 6390 Falcons demonstrated skill, collaboration, and remarkable perseverance—hallmarks of our school’s leadership philosophy.

During the second qualifier on January 31, the team placed 4th overall at the conclusion of regular play. Their strong performance earned them the 3rd Alliance Captain position heading into the playoffs, where their alliance ultimately secured 3rd place. Across eight matches, the team accumulated 41 ranking points, positioning them for consideration for the FIRST Chesapeake District Championship.

A Team Built on Precision, Teamwork, and Leadership

Congratulations to our drive team—Jalen Blackwell, Paul Casey, and Tripp Baker—whose focus, technical skill, and calm under pressure guided the robot through each match with accuracy and intent. Their leadership on the field reflects the values we foster every day: confidence, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence.

Watch Our Robot in Action

Students, families, and fans can relive the excitement by watching the 6390 robot compete. Look for the RED or BLUE 6390 tag in the following matches:

Qualification Matches: 5, 7, 11, 19, 22

Playoff Matches: 2, 3, 5

Event: FIRST Chesapeake 2026 FTC Union Bridge, MD Qualifier III (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xE1YtvxdfcM)

See the Team Live at the Robotics Expo

We invite our community to cheer on the team in person at the Annual Robotics Expo:

Wednesday, March 4
2:30–3:30 p.m.
Wilson Room

All three levels of FIRST Robotics at Gerstell will be on display, showcasing the innovation, creativity, and leadership that define our program.

Back

Gerstell Academy’s Upper School at a high-energy robotics competition—teams focused, robots ready, and the arena buzzing with STEM excitement in Carroll County
Meet Gerstell Academy’s Upper School Robotics Team, a group of innovative students driven by problem-solving, teamwork, and engineering excellence in Carroll County.
Gerstell Academy’s Upper School Robotics drive team—focused, technically skilled, and composed under pressure as they guided the robot through each match in Carroll County.
Gerstell Academy’s Upper School Robotics Team at the 2026 FIRST Chesapeake FTC Union Bridge Qualifier III—6390 ready for competition in Carroll County.
Gerstell Academy’s Upper School Robotics Team testing Robot 6390 during practice at the 2026 FIRST Chesapeake FTC Qualifier in Carroll County.

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