Oklahoma City, OK, April 6, 2024 – The Crickets, a dynamic robotics team hailing from Caddo Kiowa Technology Center located in Fort Cobb, OK, have emerged victorious at the annual FIRST Robotics Oklahoma Regional competition. Their outstanding performance has secured them an esteemed invitation to the World Championship in Houston, Texas, from Wednesday, April 17 to Saturday, April 20, 2024.

The FIRST Robotics Oklahoma Regional, held at the OKC Fairgrounds from Thursday, April 4 through Saturday, April 6, brought together some of the most innovative and skilled robotics teams from across the United States, as well as 2 international teams. Demonstrating exceptional teamwork, ingenuity, and technical prowess, The Crickets showcased their robotic masterpiece, “THOR-AXE”, impressing competitors and spectators alike.

Under the guidance of first-year head coach Reed Allen and first-year assistant coach Kyle Walbrick, The Crickets navigated through intense challenges, displaying their expertise in engineering, programming, and problem-solving. Their dedication and commitment to excellence culminated in a resounding victory, earning them the shared title of regional champions along with their alliance members, Team Tators from Boise, ID and Midas’ Mayhem out of Troy, MO.

“We are immensely proud of our kids for how they battled through adversity and setbacks,” said head coach Reed Allen. “Their hard work, perseverance, and collaborative spirit have truly paid off. This win is a testament to their exceptional talent and determination.” Allen went on to say, “Credit must be given to Rhett Morgan and Marcia Harmon. They laid the foundation for The Crickets’ success many years ago, we are simply building on their hard work and effort. This championship belongs to them as much as it does to any of us.”

As winners of the FIRST Robotics Oklahoma Regional, The Crickets have earned the esteemed privilege of representing their region on the global stage. The team is eagerly preparing to compete against top robotics teams from around the world at the World Championship in Houston, Texas. This prestigious event promises to be a showcase of innovation, creativity, and competitive spirit, and The Crickets are ready to rise to the challenge. “Skill, experience, and teamwork are far more valuable than fancy looks and expensive gadgets when it comes to performance.” says first-year competitor, co-driver, and team captain Conley King of Eakly, OK.

“We are thankful for how hard our kids worked this year, and for the amazing support from family, friends, and administration,” said assistant coach Kyle Walbrick. “I believe that my, and Reed’s, grandpas were with us in spirit helping during the whole process this year.”
The Crickets extend their heartfelt gratitude to their sponsors, mentors, families, and supporters whose unwavering support has been instrumental in their success. With their sights set on victory, The Crickets are poised to make their mark at the World Championship and continue inspiring future generations of innovators and engineers.

For more information about The Crickets and their journey to the World Championship, or to learn about how your child can join the Crickets, please contact Reed Allen at ra****@ck**.edu.

About The Crickets:

Founded in 2008, Team 2373 “The Crickets” is a passionate and dedicated robotics team representing Caddo Kiowa Technology Center in Fort Cobb, OK. Composed of talented students, mentors, and volunteers, The Crickets strive for excellence in the field of robotics through innovation, collaboration, and determination. With a commitment to inspiring and empowering future generations of engineers and technologists, The Crickets embody the spirit of creativity, ingenuity, and teamwork.

Team sponsors:

Caddo Kiowa Technology Center, ABC Superior Realty, Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO), United States Department of Defense (DoD STEM), and other private donors.

Team members include:

Brothers Ayden and David Anderson, Ryder Bellamy, and Ryan Ahtone from Carnegie. Malachi Dresselhaus and Samantha Bigley from Mountain View-Gotebo. Quinsyn Goombi from Anadarko. Shelton Willis from Verden. Conley King, Peyton Lierle, Easton Morris, and Gracen Ruckman from Hydro-Eakly. The Crickets are coached by Reed Allen of Fort Cobb, and Kyle Walbrick of Lawton.

About FIRST Robotics Competition:

FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is an international high school robotics competition that gives students real-world engineering experience. Teams of students, working closely with mentors, build and program robots to perform tasks against a field of competitors. FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology to create a unique and engaging experience for participants and spectators alike.