A high school robotics team will represent Canada at an international event in 2013, and Yorkton Council unanimously approved support for the students after a request Monday.
"This is the third year in which the YRHS Robotics team have competed at the Skills Canada competition in Robotics. Each robotics team consists of four members who contribute to the design, building, driving and maintenance of the robot," explained team member Bo Chiasson at the regular meeting of Council.
The team consists of students Jayden Leister, Bo Chiasson, Rachael Machnee, and Taylor Pachal under the guidance of Kevin Chiasson.
Bo Chiasson told Council how the team advanced to the upcoming international competition.
"In March, we had the privilege of competing and winning provincials at the Skills Canada Robotics tournament. This qualified us for the National Skills Competition held in Edmonton on May 17 & 17, where we once again won gold, which in turn qualifies us for the World Skills Competition to be held in Leipzig Germany from July 2 - 7, 2013," he said.
At the international level only two team members are eligible to go.
"Since only two members are eligible to move on, myself and Jayden Leister have been selected to represent our country. Mr. Chiasson has been designated 'team trainer' for this event. Our training begins this month and will end in June, 2013 (with only three weeks off during the summer). This will be a mentally taxing time for our team to manage the intensive training schedule ahead of us. It is important that we maintain our mental and physical fitness during this time," said Chiasson.
The team requested the City sponsor the two members and trainer by providing a pass to the Gloria Hayden courts and Gallagher Centre waterpark facilities during this challenging year.
In addition, the group sought financial help from Council.
"We are also seeking financial support for the two members who are not able to compete. It will cost approximately $6,000 for both of them to participate as 'official observers'. We respectfully ask for $500 towards their trip costs, although any amount would be appreciated," he said.
Both requests were approved by Council.
