Recap provided by Guy Risedorph

The Hamilton CyberHawks wrapped up their off-season at the West Michigan Robotics Invitational (WMRI), facing a strong field of 31 teams. Seventeen teams had qualified for the Michigan State Championship and 11 for the World Championship, making WMRI one of Michigan’s most competitive off-season events.

In preparation, the CyberHawks added mechanisms to deliver more game pieces and new control options for their drive team. After testing the upgrades at an earlier event at Ferris State University, the team brought them to WMRI.

The CyberHawks went undefeated in their three qualification matches. Team captain and driver Sam Risedorph, operator Nathan Eding and human player Nate Dirske helped the team earn the fifth-place ranking. During the alliance draft, the CyberHawks became captain of the fourth alliance and selected Team 1918, the NC Gears, and Team 7054, the SC Sailors. Team 3357, the Comets, joined as an alternate through a random draw.

The alliance set the tournament’s high score in its opening playoff match. After a close loss to the top-ranked alliance, the group won two more matches before falling to that same alliance in the semifinals. The CyberHawks finished the day with a 6–1 record.

WMRI gave students valuable competition experience and a chance to connect with FRC students and mentors from across Michigan. Off-season events also give students and mentors opportunities to try different roles and build on the work they put into their robot during the regular season.

The CyberHawks are now preparing for the 2027 season. New student applications close soon, and the team will get its first look at the season’s game when it is revealed January 9.

You can support the CyberHawks by visiting their website and following them on social media.