At the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition Tallahassee Regional, one high school team stood out not just for their robot, but for their leadership, initiative, and impact. Competing against dozens of teams from across the region, the Pace MAC-ros earned the prestigious Rising All-Star Award, which is an honor that recognizes young teams showing exceptional promise both on and off the field.
Held at the Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center in Tallahassee, Florida, the regional brought together roughly 45 teams for several days of intense competition, collaboration, and innovation. FIRST Robotics is part of a global program that challenges students to design, build, and program industrial-sized robots while also developing skills in teamwork, outreach, and engineering. Although the MAC-ros are still finding their legs as a new team, they managed to be placed top 800 in the 1,600 teams on the leaderboard.
What makes this achievement particularly notable is that the team is entirely student-led. From mechanical design and programming to outreach and fundraising, students take ownership of every aspect of the team’s success. Mentors provide guidance, but the direction, decisions, and drive come from the students themselves.
The Rising All-Star Award is given to a team that embodies the mission of FIRST for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. It highlights teams that are still growing but already proves strong potential to become leaders in their community and the broader robotics world. Judges look for teams that not only compete effectively, but also promote STEM education, engage in meaningful outreach, and build a sustainable team structure.
Throughout the competition, the Mac-ros impressed judges with their organization, passion, and commitment to spreading STEM opportunities. Their outreach efforts included mentoring younger students, hosting workshops, and actively engaging their local community, along with hosting summer camps for young students. On the field, their robot highlighted thoughtful design and steady improvement, reflecting the team’s dedication and technical skills.
Winning the Rising All-Star Award marks an important milestone for the MAC-ros. It not only recognizes what they have already accomplished but also signals their potential to grow into a top contender in future seasons.
As the season continues toward the FIRST Championship, this team carries forward not just a trophy, but momentum and a clear message that student-driven innovation is shaping the future of engineering.
Watch them win the Rising All-Star Award here: https://youtu.be/4EbDky676cM