State Champions -Jared Craven

For me, the moment everything became real was during alliance selections. When our team was selected by the number one alliance, made up of two of the top teams in the entire state, I realized we had an opportunity to do something historic for our program. We could win the state championship. 600 teams in the state of Michigan, 3 winners, and we had the chance to be part of an elite group of robotics teams.
Competing at the 2026 FIRST in Michigan State Championship was one of the most incredible experiences I have ever been a part of. As team captain, I had the privilege of leading a group of students who continuously demonstrated dedication, resilience, and teamwork throughout the entire season. Especially at the State Championship, with some bad luck in qualifications and our robot catching on fire early on in the competition, the team maintained their poise and maturity throughout. 
The atmosphere at States was unlike anything else. The energy in the arena, the intensity of every match, and the support from teams, mentors, and families created an environment that was both inspiring and unforgettable. Being surrounded by some of the best teams in Michigan pushed all of us to perform at our highest level. All our team wanted to do was help our alliance partners be the best they could be, and perform at the highest level, one we were preparing to play at the entire season.
What made the experience truly special, however, was not just winning the State Championship, it was accomplishing it together. Watching our team work alongside elite alliance partners, trust one another under pressure, and rise to the occasion showed what FIRST Robotics Competition is really about: allowing students to learn and grow. Success at that level is not achieved by one person; it is built through collaboration, preparation, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Winning the Michigan State Championship was an incredible honor for our program, but more importantly, it was a reflection of the hard work and support from everyone involved — our students, mentors, sponsors, parents, and community. None of it would have been possible without the people who believed in us throughout the season.
This experience is something I will remember for the rest of my life, and I am proud to have represented our team on one of the biggest stages in FIRST Robotics Competition.
 
Jared Craven
Captain 3668, the TroBots