Skip to content

Events and competitions

Events and competitions

FRC events are fast-paced tournaments where multiple teams pair up in temporary alliances.

Match structure

Most matches follow this pattern:

  • Autonomous period (first ~15 seconds)
  • Robots run pre-programmed routines without driver input.
  • Often includes driving off starting lines, scoring early game pieces, or docking.
  • Teleoperated period
  • Drivers control robots via gamepads/joysticks.
  • Alliances coordinate offense, defense, and endgame timing.
  • Endgame
  • Final task(s) worth significant points (climb, balance, park, etc.).

Qualification vs. playoffs

  • Qualification matches
  • Random alliances; focus on consistent performance and cooperation with many partners.
  • Rankings are usually based on win/loss/tie plus bonus ranking points.
  • Alliance selection and playoffs
  • Top-ranked teams become alliance captains and draft partners.
  • Playoffs are elimination brackets; alliances advance by winning best-of series.

Awards and impact

Beyond match results, events also recognize:

  • Robot performance awards (e.g., Industrial Design, Quality).
  • Team impact awards (e.g., Impact Award, Engineering Inspiration).
  • Rookie awards for new teams.

These emphasize that FRC is about learning, outreach, and teamwork in addition to on-field success.