KINGSTON, Jamaica — Demonstrating remarkable initiative and technical prowess, the Convent of Mercy Academy ‘Alpha’ robotics team achieved a stunning performance at the prestigious First Tech Challenge (FTC) Jamaica National Robotics Championship. Operating without a dedicated coach, the team distinguished itself through exceptional innovation, collaborative spirit, and STEM leadership on a national platform.
Entering the competition as underdogs, Team Alpha forged a strategic alliance with the American International School in Kingston. This partnership proved highly effective, allowing them to outperform several favored teams. Their impressive run was ultimately halted only in the championship finals by the combined force of Meadowbrook High and Wolmer’s Boys High School.
Team captain Julianne Campbell expressed astonishment at their success. “It was a surprise even to us,” Campbell revealed. “At the season’s outset, we were novices in robotics. We faced numerous challenges and established three modest goals: to rank in the top ten, then the top five, and finally, to win any award. Despite persistent technical issues on competition day, our scores consistently improved round after round, propelling us unexpectedly into the semi-finals and alliance selections.”
The absence of a coach necessitated a unique and self-reliant preparation strategy. Campbell elaborated on their methodology: “Without a coach, we begin each season by setting clear objectives. We meticulously track our progress against these goals in the subsequent weeks. When encountering complex problems, we proactively seek mentorship from other institutions. This season, we received invaluable guidance from Team Circle of Wolmer’s Boys and technical assistance from Dunoon Tech.”
Principal Kali McMorris highlighted the achievement as a natural extension of the school’s educational philosophy. “Ours is a STEAM-focused institution [Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics],” McMorris stated. “Our robust IT department has consistently cultivated students skilled in coding and design. We are committed to empowering our students to pioneer the ethical development of technological tools that will benefit our nation.”
Now, the nine-member squad—comprising seven engineers and two programmers—is setting its sights on future accolades. Campbell outlined her ambitious vision: “My goal for the club extends beyond training the next generation of robotics enthusiasts. I want the team to consistently reach the championship stage after successfully navigating the regional qualifiers in Jamaica. Furthermore, we aim to compete for prestigious awards like the Inspire Award.”
The Inspire Award recognizes teams that demonstrate holistic excellence, not only in robot design and construction but also in community outreach and gracious professionalism by sharing knowledge with peers.
This promising team receives steadfast support from the Alpha Alumnae Florida Chapter. The chapter will host its ‘Beyond the Stars’ fundraiser on Saturday, March 14, to bolster STEM initiatives and other academic and extracurricular programs at the school.
Kerry-Ann Brown, president of the alumnae chapter, framed the team’s accomplishment in a broader context. “This achievement by the robotics team is more than a trophy,” Brown said. “It is a powerful reminder of what is possible when young women are equipped with opportunity, resources, and unwavering support.”