GaCo Qualifies to Compete at its 2026 District Championship

Garrett County’s Public High School’s FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team 1629, GaCo, competed at its second qualifier for its 2026 FRC season last weekend, March 28-29, at Severn Run High School in Severn, Maryland. 

GaCo was one of thirty-five teams from across Maryland, Virginia, and DC that competed, earning a total of 38 “District” points - enough to secure their advancement to the 2026 Chesapeake District Championship. All in all, the team ended up as the captain of the 4th-seeded alliance but was eliminated in the semi-final playoffs. So far this season, GaCo’s match win-loss record is 23-9-0. The Chesapeake District Championship will be held at Virginia State University (VSU) in Petersburg, Virginia, April 9-12, 2026.

During closing ceremonies, GaCo was presented with the event’s Engineering Inspiration (EI) Award. According to FIRST, the EI Award recognizes teams that promote respect and appreciation for engineering in their community and schools. Winning the EI Award will enable the team to compete for the same award at their District Championship among all the other EI Award winners of the District's seven qualifiers for 2026. In addition, Eden Rankin, Junior at Northern Garrett High School, was selected to be one of two District FIRST Leadership Award Semi-Finalists and will compete as a finalist at the District championship.

There are approximately 120 FRC teams in the Chesapeake District, about half of which will advance to the District Championship. Each team had a chance to compete at two of the seven District qualifiers in order to earn points towards advancement. Currently, GaCo is ranked 13th in its district.

GaCo is composed of students from both Northern and Southern Garrett High Schools. Founded in 2005, this is the team's 22nd season. The team wishes to thank all for the support, allowing them to represent Garrett County and make a difference throughout the central Appalachian region. Follow the team at @gaco1629, email gaco@gcps.net, or visit stemreadykids.org.