UIL Partners with FIRST in Texas

The University Interscholastic League (UIL) has selected FIRST as one of two robotics partners to pilot a robotics program during the 2015-2016 school year.  This is exciting news for students across Texas.

We now have the opportunity to bring FIRST robotics to millions of students across the state of Texas. The opportunity to celebrate robotics the same way we celebrate sports, music and other competitive extra-curricular activities, is stronger than ever.

A few important things to note:

• UIL has elected to pilot FIRST Tech Challenge and FIRST Robotics Competition, along with BEST Robotics.
• FIRST & BEST will operate independently of each other.
• The UIL pilot does not in ANY way change or impact the regular FIRST season. All Texas teams will be able to participate in FIRST programs and competitions the same way they have in the past.
• The robotics pilot for FIRST will include one state championship event on July 28th – 30th, 2016 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, TX.

For more information and a detailed FAQ, visit the UIL website:

UIL Robotics

FIRST in Texas will work closely with the UIL to conduct training sessions on how to start FIRST teams. Look for an opportunity to learn more in your area this spring:

• 3/9-3/12: FIRST Alamo Regional: Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center, San Antonio
• 3/23-3/26: FIRST Dallas Regional: Irving Convention Center
• 3/31-4/3: FIRST Hub City Regional: United Markets Arena, Lubbock
• 4/6-4/9: FIRST Lone Star Regional: George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston

For more information about FIRST in Texas, contact us here.