Champions Rise at the Illinois 4-H Robotics Challenge

The Center for Future Innovators (CFI ROBOTICS NFP) is thrilled to share the results of an extraordinary day of competition, creativity, and collaboration at the 2025 Illinois 4-H State Robotics Challenge, held on Saturday, May 3, at the Interstate Center at the McLean County Fairgrounds in Bloomington, Illinois.

This annual statewide event brought together student teams from across Illinois to compete in robot design, programming, and teamwork challenges. With divisions for rookies and experienced competitors alike, the competition emphasized technical learning, creativity, and sportsmanship. Our students rose to the occasion with record-setting results.

🤖 Team BOB (Brain Over Brawn) – Rookie Division

Making their debut, Team BOB proved that new teams can make a big impact. Guided by Coach Tim and supported by youth mentors, the team impressed judges with their robot performance and composure under pressure. Their results:

• 🏆 Top Table Score Award

• 🏆 Rookie Champions Award

The Rookie Division featured teams who had never before competed in 4-H, FLL, FTC, or FRC events. Team BOB stood out with precise execution and strong communication throughout the day.

🤖 Team ChatGPTeam – Level Two Division

Returning with experience and focus, ChatGPTeam competed in the most advanced division and made history. This team achieved:

• 🏆 Top Table Score Award

• 🏆 Level Two Champions Award

• 🏆 Grand Champion Award (the first ever awarded at the Illinois 4-H State Robotics Challenge)

ChatGPTeam is now the first recipient of the statewide Grand Champion Award, a new recognition given to the highest scoring team across Table Performance, Technical Judging, and Teamwork Evaluation.

This also marks CFI’s second consecutive Level Two Champions Award, following last year’s win by Code on the Cob.

Special shoutouts:

• Charlotte, now a two-time Level Two Champion, was recognized for her leadership and reliability

• Luke, the team’s captain, helped guide strategy and focus throughout the day

🙌 Celebrating Teamwork, Mentorship, and Community

The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication of our coaches, mentors, families, and sponsors. We want to thank:

• Mr. Tim – Head Coach, Team BOB

• Ms. Li – Head Coach, ChatGPTeam

• Youth mentors and volunteers – Charlotte, Luke, Raymond, Jayden, and Rayva

• Brian Meadows – Executive Director, CFI Robotics NFP

• Our families – for their encouragement and support

• Our sponsor, ADG – for investing in youth innovation and opportunity