Amsterdam High School’s robotics team, RAMpage.AI, received the prestigious Rookie All-Star Award at the Tech Valley Robotics Competition, held at MVP Arena. This award recognizes a first-year team that demonstrates a strong partnership effort and effectively promotes the mission of FIRST, which seeks to inspire students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The RAMpage.AI team consists of seniors, juniors, and sophomores, under the guidance of head coach Billy Eipp. Mentors Antonio Spagnola and Kristina Fureno provided additional support, helping the team navigate the challenges of their inaugural season. Despite competing for the first time, the team placed 41st out of 57 teams, a commendable achievement in a highly competitive field.
Participation in programs such as FIRST Robotics provides Amsterdam students with opportunities to develop critical problem-solving skills, collaborate in team settings, and engage with real-world engineering challenges. The district’s commitment to expanding STEM initiatives aligns with its broader goal of preparing students for careers in an increasingly technology-driven world.
“The success of RAMpage.AI in its first season is a testament to the dedication of our students, coaches, and mentors,” said Superintendent Richard Ruberti. “We are proud to see our students embracing new challenges and excelling in such a rigorous competition.”
With the experience gained this season, RAMpage.AI looks forward to returning next year with new strategies and a continued focus on growth. The team’s early success highlights the district’s investment in STEM education and sets a strong foundation for future robotics competitions.