Building Legacy, Legos, and Robots

​Sometimes the best way to describe the FIRST Lego League (FLL) Core Values, including Gracious Professionalism, is with first-hand accounts and pictures. This article showcases some stellar examples in the Cattaraugus-Allegany BOCES region.

Brian Kelly was a team member on the Allegany-Limestone Lego Troopers in 2010.  They were the inaugural winners of the CABOCES Traveling Lego Trophy.  In high school, Brian volunteered as a mentor for the Allegany-Limestone teams and once he graduated, he returned as a judge.  He and his mother, Marcel Kelly, continue to be two of the most dedicated and experienced judges in our region

This is how Brian describes his experiences:
"I have been a part of our local Lego League for just over a decade now. I have had the pleasure of being a participant, mentor, and judge.

As a participant, Lego League was the highlight of every school year. It was more than just playing with Legos at school—it was about the thrill of challenging our robot at the table, the unbreakable camaraderie among teammates, and the pure joy that only creativity can create.

Transitioning to a mentor, my perspective shifted. I witnessed teams experiencing that same exhilarating rush, building camaraderie, and exhibiting brilliance fueled by passion.  Watching my students as they tackled global issues with inventive solutions was a moment of immense pride. The excitement of scoring points at the last second and the laughter when robots unpredictably navigated the map were unforgettable.

Now, as a judge, I'm privileged to observe the next generation. I see their enthusiasm as they share stories about their robots, like why their robot is named 'Bob3.0' and the tragedies of 'Bob2.0' and 1.0, why they did what they did, and which part they enjoyed the most (often it is to hang out with their new friends). 

Each year, I return not just out of nostalgia, but to witness the ongoing spirit of innovation and camaraderie in Lego League. It's a testament to the enduring appeal and educational value of this fantastic program.  

It goes without saying that I was able to embark on this journey thanks to those who supported me and my exploits. No one better exemplifies this than my mother who has been there through every step of the process, from chauffeur to beloved colleague.
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As the inaugural winners back in 2010, holding the traveling Lego trophy was a moment of triumph and joy. I assure you, there were many times when I thought little Sherman (our robot) wouldn't make it, but he pulled through every time. The trophy symbolizes not just a victory, but the journey of learning, teamwork, and imaginative problem-solving that defines the Lego League experience.

​Coaches and mentors inspire their teams to do their best, both as individuals and together.  Without them, there would be no program.  The FLL Coach Award is given to the coach whose leadership and guidance are clear and best exemplifies the FIRST Core Values.

The 2024 Coach Award was presented to Vicky Mattison who was nominated by her team, the Wellsville Middle School Lego Lions.

This is what Vicky's team said about her:
Our coach deserves any award given to her.  Without her, we wouldn't be here.  She takes extra time out of her schedule to help us. She makes us continue working when we feel it won't work.  She still deals with us and is thoughtful through our mistakes. She lets us decide on what we want to do.  She recognizes everyone's ideas.

When we need time to rest, she gives it to us but also convinces us to keep trying. 
Especially from the Lego League graduates, we will always remember her.
P.S. We also love her because she feeds us Oreos!
 
Congratulations and thank you to everyone who supports the FIRST Lego League experience for the students in the Cattaraugus-Allegany region. 
Contact Karen Insley, [email protected], or Jean Oliverio, [email protected] if you want to learn more about coaching and/or judging and supporting kids who will change the world.
 
Footnote:
The original CABOCES Traveling Lego Trophy was built in 2010 by 16-year-old Nick Oliverio.  It is awarded annually to the Champion team, who has the prestigious honor of displaying it at their school for a year. While in their possession, the team may disassemble, rebuild, and/or enhance it, but they must return it in one piece the following year.  This fourteen-year regional tradition has become a highlight of the Awards Ceremony at the CABOCES Qualifying tournaments.
On January 27, 2024, the Trophy was awarded to Team #40220, the Belfast Wizard of dOgZ team, coached by Beth and Josh Hazelton.
 
By:  Jean Oliverio, CA BOCES Student Programs