FA Robotics Team “Caesar” Competes at VEX Worlds in St. Louis

Fryeburg Academy’s robotics team traveled to St. Louis in April to compete in the 2026 VEX Robotics World Championship, held April 21–30 at the America’s Center Convention Complex. The event brought together about 800 of the top teams from a field of roughly 10,000 worldwide, making it the largest robotics competition of its kind.

Team 20005Z, “Caesar,” qualified for Worlds at the Maine State Championship in March, where they were both tournament finalists and recipients of the Design Award.

Led by faculty members Dave Sartory and Dave West, the team competed in the Math Division—one of 10 divisions with approximately 85 teams each. Over four days, they played 12 matches and finished with a 7–4–1 record, placing 41st in their division.

“This is what they’ve been building toward all season,” said Sartory. “To see them step into that environment against the best teams in the world and not just hold their own, but compete with confidence, that’s incredibly rewarding. And, being positioned as the 41st among these elite teams is an incredible achievement.”

Each day ran from about 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with time spent competing, troubleshooting, and preparing for upcoming matches. The team also had one afternoon to explore St. Louis, including a visit to the Gateway Arch.

“It’s a long week, but it’s a great experience for them,” Sartory added. “They learn a lot just by being there and competing at that level.”

Fryeburg Academy alum Chloe Sartory ’23 also supported the team on site. Representing Maine VEX volunteers, she served as a field scoring referee in the Innovation Division.

Thanks to the support of the Academy, The Dearborn Foundation, The Chris Perry Technology and Innovation Foundation, and 302 West Smokehouse, the team was able to take part in this year’s championship.