MEDIA ADVISORY

WHAT:
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics is an international phenomenon that evokes passion and fortitude in students exploring careers in science, engineering, math, medical technology and related fields.
With six weeks of preparation behind them, 40 high school robotics teams from Southeast Michigan will descend on the Matthaei Physical Education Center at Wayne State University March 16 and 17, 2012, for the FIRST Robotics 2012 Detroit District competition.

Game Description

This year's competition is based on a game called "Rebound Rumble" played by two competing alliances on a flat, 27x54-foot field. Each alliance consists of three robots that compete to score as many baskets as they can during an approximate two-minute match.
The public is welcome to join the charged-up atmosphere guaranteed for each FIRST Robotic event. Below is the schedule for the Detroit District competition:

WHEN:
Friday, March 16, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free and open to the public.
Saturday, March 17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free and open to the public.

WHERE:
Wayne State University's Matthaei Physical Education Center, 5101 John C. Lodge, Detroit, Mich. 48202

MORE INFO:

Schedule

Friday, March 16, 2012
Opening ceremonies: 10:30 a.m.
Matches begin: 11 a.m.
Lunch break: 1 p.m.
Matches resume: 2 p.m.
Matches end: 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 17, 2012
Opening ceremonies: 9 a.m.
Matches begin: 9:30 a.m.
Alliance selection: 12:30 p.m.
Lunch break: 1 p.m.
Elimination matches begin: 2 p.m.
Awards ceremony: 5 p.m.

For more information about FIRST Michigan and other competitions taking place throughout the state, visit http://www.firstinmichigan.org/. Access the press release for the FIRST Robotics Detroit District competition here.
Webcast at http://www.coderedrobotics.com/webcast/.

EDITOR NOTE:
Media is invited to visit the pit area, which opens at 9 a.m. Friday and 8 a.m. Saturday.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution of higher education offering more than 400 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 32,000 students. For more information about engineering at Wayne State University, visit http://www.engineering.wayne.edu/.