Welcome to the 2008 season of RoboCup Junior!
We have an exciting few months ahead of us with regional competitions being held in Melbourne (26th July) and Geelong (2nd August) and the State Finals (15th August) once again being hosted by our friends in Geelong at the K.D. Stewart Centre at Deakin University, Waurn Ponds campus. This is an ideal venue for RoboCup Junior and allows all leagues to be competing under the one roof. Deakin University’s continued support can only strengthen our competition into the future.
The other exciting news is that GENII Soccer will be the official RoboCup Junior Australia Soccer competition in 2008. Its great to have GENII up and running after so much developmental work done by Brian “Tommo” Thomas, and we look forward to watching some spectacular matches in the upcoming competitions. The old favourites, Dance and Rescue will be back again and, as usual, will provide spectators with entertaining displays of robotics.
The role of RoboCup has always been to provide a dynamic, student-orientated learning experience in a supportive and co-operative environment. Let’s continue that fine tradition this year and enjoy some of the best robotic competition available. We’re excited, in anticipation of having a strong competition this year, so enjoy the atmosphere, meet new people, share ideas, and just have a good time!
Remember to-check the rules for 2008 as they have changed since last year, and get your entries in quickly!
Susan Dixon
State Chair RoboCup Junior Victoria