Centra Reach High School robotics team wins multiple awards including sportsmanship at World Championships

A remarkable achievement in robotics was celebrated at the Middle Country Central School District Board of Education meeting on June 11, 2025, as the Cool Gears robotics team was honored for their outstanding performance over the past four years. The team, comprised of dedicated students from Centra Reach High School, has made waves in the VEX robotics competitions, culminating in their participation in the prestigious VEX World Championships in Dallas, where they competed against teams from 53 countries.

Coach Nicholas Parinello, a graduate of Centra Reach, praised the students for their hard work and camaraderie, stating, "One of the best attributes of this group is their friendship and loyalty to one another." He highlighted their journey, which included winning multiple awards at regional competitions, such as the Design Award and the Excellence Award, showcasing their engineering skills and design processes.

The pinnacle of their achievements was receiving the Sportsmanship Award at the world competition, a recognition that reflects not only their technical prowess but also their character. Parinello expressed pride in the team, noting, "They've worked tirelessly on these machines, performing engineering tasks, and I couldn't be more proud of this group of students."

The meeting also acknowledged the contributions of career technical education teachers, who played a vital role in the success of the Career Exploration Challenge. Their dedication helped students excel in presentations and secure placements, further emphasizing the importance of support and mentorship in education.

As the Cool Gears team prepares to graduate, their legacy of teamwork and innovation will undoubtedly inspire future generations of students in the Middle Country School District.