VOLT Returns From 2019 VEX World Championship

Just got back from Worlds and once again, it was an exciting event. We managed a 7-4 overall record but didn't make the playoffs despite beating the defending World Champion E-Bots PiLons team and powerhouse Hefei No. 1 from China. We were hoping our performance against top teams spoke for itself but when alliance selection came, it's like we got lost in the crowd.

The bottom line is if you don't have a superb qualifying round record - which requires a lucky match schedule - or a major rep, it's hard for teams to find you. There were like 12 teams with the same record as us and we were ranked 32nd. Should have at least made it into the round of 16. Teams really need to stand out during Worlds or have major clout going into the tournament.

Scouting is extremely important at Worlds as well. The qualifying rounds are so chaotic and energy draining that teams kind of limp into alliance selection on Saturday morning. Brains are so fried teams just lean on win loss records which can be very deceptive. There was literally a Chinese 10th or 11th seed that had no idea who to pick and asked the audience to call out a team number for them to choose.

That being said, we had a great time. The atmosphere in the Exposition Center was electric all week. A lot of teams got into the spirit of the competition and wore costumes, mingled with teams from around the globe, and helped each other out.

And of course, Ehrler's Ice Cream, a Louisville tradition. Almost feel like flying out for a couple scoops of that Bourbon Fudge Pecan. Mmmm...

We look forward to returning next year!