Tafuna High School JROTC Robotics Teams qualify for the National Championships

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Tafuna High School’a JROTC VEX Robotics teams, Toa Robotics and Toa Robotics 2.0, are preparing to showcase their skills on a national platform. These teams have qualified for the JROTC National Robotics Championship at the VEX Worlds, set to take place at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, from April 28-30, 2024.

This year, the competition will see JROTC Robotics teams from across the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine, and Space Force branches vying for numerous awards and the coveted title of Tournament Champion.

Qualification for this event is a testament to a team's skill, dedication, and performance throughout the season, with invitations extended based on the JROTC Robot Skills Ranking. Both teams' last tournament was held on February 26, where they improved their scores from the February 7 tournament. Toa Robotics vastly improved their score from 89 to 213 points, and Toa Robotics 2.0 increased their score to 220 points. Impressively, Toa Robotics 2.0 stands 18th nationally in the JROTC division, with Toa Robotics not far behind at 22nd out of 216 competing teams.

Toa Robotics team includes: c/CSM Charles Tauiliili - Team Captain, c/CPT Nicholle Sualevai, c/SSG Danny Young, c/SSG Joseph Spitzenberg, c/SGT Pemerika Tauiliili, c/CPL Emanuele Ah Vui.

Toa Robotics 2.0 team includes: c/MAJ Isalei Liaiga - Team Captain,  c/MAJ Ladenia Lavatai, c/MAJ Francis Ah Vui, c/CPT Filiga Tufa, c/CPT Taipo Sia.

The journey to Dallas is made possible through the generous support of the 8th Brigade at Joint Base Lewis- McChord, which has funded the participation of 8 cadets, covering round-trip airfare, lodging, and meals. The American Samoa Department of Education has invested in two more cadets and a chaperone, ensuring a robust representation at the event.

Tafuna High School and the THS JROTC Program extend their heartfelt gratitude to several key individuals and organizations for their unwavering support. Special thanks go to Talauega Dr. Samasoni Asaeli, Director of Education; Deputy Director of Instructional Services Dr. Roxanne Sua'ava Salave'a; and Dr. Dottie Aga-Tuisamatatele, Assistant Director of Secondary, for their pivotal roles in making this opportunity possible. Additionally, Ms. Liupapa Laumoli at the AS

DOE travel office deserves recognition for invaluable assistance with travel arrangements. In addition, they thank the DAI COL(R) John Tulifua and SFC(R) Mark Time of the American Samoa Multiple School Unit (ASMSU) for their support and the JROTC Instructors from Leone and Samoana in assisting with spare Robotics parts.

However, the foundation of the Toa Robotics teams' success lies within the community itself. The parents and families of the THS JROTC robotics cadets have been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of engineers, coders, designers, and builders. Their commitment and support have fostered a conducive environment for learning and engagement in STEAM and have been the backbone of the teams' journey to the national stage.

As we celebrate the achievements of the Toa Robotics and Toa Robotics 2.0 teams, we also acknowledge the collective effort of our community in empowering our youth. Their participation in the 2024 VEX World Robotics Championship is not just a competition; it's a demonstration of American Samoa's commitment to excellence in education, innovation, and our children's future.

Principal Tutuila Togilau, the THS JROTC Department, MAJ Galoia, MSG Puletasi, and SFC Solaita thank everyone for making this dream a reality. Let's cheer on our teams as they prepare to take on the best in the nation, representing American Samoa with pride and excellence.