2024 Jackrabbit Best Robotics

Jerome J Lohr College of Engineering- South Dakota State University

BEST

BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology) Robotics Inc. started in Texas in 1993 by two engineers from Texas Instruments. Since then, interest in the program has helped create 50 hubs (local competition sites) nationwide. SDSU is proud to be one of the newest hubs.

The mission of BEST Robotics Inc. is to inspire students to pursue careers in engineering, science and technology through participation in a sports-like, science- and engineering-based robotics competition.

BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology) offers

• the EXCITEMENT of a basketball game
• the STRATEGY of a chess match
• the INTELLECTUAL CHALLENGE of a science fair
• the PRESSURE of a competitive sporting event

. . . plus hundreds of screaming fans, pep bands, cheerleaders, music, dancing and mascots!

Game Teaser

The teaser video for LOW G, this year’s game looks like a fun challenge!

2024 Game Teaser

Click on the Image to watch the video.

Registration for the 2024 games is open.

Registration for the 2024 games already open. Be sure to go out to the Best Robotics website to get registered.

There are opportunities to attend the Texas or Denver Teacher/Coach training over the summer. 
Watch bestinc.org for more information as those will soon be announced.

New Controller Information

We are getting more information on the new controller (known as Gizmo), and the technical documentation is taking shape. Documentation will be made available soon via the Registry (Annual Game Files and Q&A section).

The package will replace the Cortex, joystick, the wireless keys, and the cable used in the wired configuration. All the rest of the returnable kit will remain the same. The cost for the complete set of components is just under $150. Much more affordable than the current solution.  You are welcome to buy them, however 
please remember we will be using the Cortex for competition in 2024, both in Brookings and in Denver Regionals

We will be procuring a small number of the Gizmos for our Committee training.

Save the Dates!!

September 28th: Kick-Off Day
The playing field and game are revealed for the first time. Teams learn the game objectives, receive the kits for their robot, and can attend training sessions.

November 9th: Practice Day

This is an optional opportunity for teams to practice with their robot on the actual competition playing field, scope out the competition, and make robot changes.

November 23rd: Game Day!!

Teams are rewarded for their hard work with a funday competing with their robot and are also judged on their Engineering Notebook, Exhibit & Interview, Marketing Presentation, and Spirit & Sportsmanship. Winners advance to regional competition.