On Saturday, Hopkinton hosted the Vex IQ December Slapshot Qualifier, a regional competition that invites robotics teams from Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Teams have to work together to build their robots, and then control the robots through a variety of skills challenges. This event is open to both middle school and elementary school kids.

Hopkinton has traditionally placed well in Vex IQ robotics competitions, having won four Vex world trophies. The national event occurs next May.

Pat Allen is the coach of the team, and leads the Hiller Robotics program at the Middle School. “It’s so exciting to watch all of our students design, build, and program these robots,” she said. “Their perseverance and excitement is infectious.”