Thank you for participating in FIRST Tech Challenge this season!
Below you will find the latest announcements and links to regional communication hubs. Need more support? Email us at [email protected].
Announcements & Resources
Below you will find an archive of past FTC newsletters. We also recommend the following resources:
- 4 Things to Getting Event Ready
- FIRST in Texas Season Fees and Regional Breakdown
- Guide to the FIRST in Texas Waiver & Event Readiness Form
Teams across Texas are deep into the DECODE™ presented by RTX season — competing, learning, and preparing for the exciting events ahead. This issue highlights a few key updates and resources to help you stay informed, connected, and ready for what’s next.
Here’s what’s inside:
- firstintexas.org & How to Find Information – learn how to access updated FTC resources, region maps, and announcements all in one place.
- Register for Events - make sure you are eligible to compete by completing both the FIRST and FIRST in Texas registrations.
- Grant Updates – find the latest information on open applications and upcoming funding opportunities for teams.
- Coach Corner – explore curated build, programming, and training resources to help your team grow throughout the season.
This newsletter is your guide to the tools, funding, and community knowledge shaping the Texas FIRST Tech Challenge season.
Teams across Texas are settling into the season and looking ahead to the next big milestones. From training and grant opportunities to new events and volunteer spotlights, this issue highlights what’s happening now and where to go for the information you’ll need:
- Region Specific Information – where to find updates from your PDP about local events and logistics
- Rookie Coach Clinic Resource – catch up on the clinic if you missed it for details on the season designed for new coaches
- REV Robotics Education Sessions – join us at the Preview Event to learn more about how to integrate robotics in the classroom and about the FTC DUO Starter Bot!
- United States Governors Cup – what this new event is, and how teams can apply
- Grant Updates – the latest on application timelines and funding opportunities for teams
- Volunteer Spotlight – meet Lauren Pecoy, recently featured by FIRST® as part of #PeopleofSTEAM
- Coach Corner – guidance on mentor resources available through firstinspires.org
This newsletter is your quick guide to the resources, opportunities, and community stories shaping the season.
With kickoff behind us, teams across Texas are diving into the new game and looking ahead to tournaments, scrimmages, and training opportunities. This issue highlights what’s ahead and where to find the information you’ll need as the season unfolds:
- Season Information – updates on how events are structured in each region and where to look for details from your PDP
- Coach Corner – each issue will spotlight a resource for coaches; this month we’re focusing on FTC-Events and how it helps track results
- Celebration Events – a look at the Preview Event, Texas State Cup, and Cowtown Invitational
- REV Robotics Education Team Sessions - join us at the Preview Event to learn more about how to integrate robotics in the classroom and about the FTC DUO Starter Bot!
- Grant Opportunities – funding available for teams, including FTC SIM Argosy
This newsletter is your snapshot of the season ahead and a guide to the most important opportunities for teams and volunteers.
Kickoff is here, and with it comes the official start of a brand-new game and a year full of opportunities for teams across Texas (and beyond). In this issue, you’ll find:
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Details on Kickoff this Saturday
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Information on the DECODE Preview Event in October
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A Season-at-a-Glance to help you plan ahead
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Guidance on how to register for events
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Key dates for the Dean’s List Award nomination process
Whether you’re a coach, mentor, student, or volunteer, this newsletter will help you hit the ground running this season.
The DECODE™ presented by RTX season is about to officially begin! We’re excited to share a few quick reminders, tips, and upcoming opportunities as we head into kickoff weekend.
In this newsletter:
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3 Things to Do Before Kickoff
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Kickoff Locations & How to Watch
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Dean’s List Reminders
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Coach’s Corner Tips
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Share Your Kickoff Photos
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Welcome back to the FIRST® Tech Challenge DECODE™ presented by RTX season!
We know teams are eagerly gearing up for the new season, and we want to kick things off with a few critical updates to answer some of your questions and concerns about the upcoming season.
In this newsletter we will cover:
- Large-Scale Programmatic Updates About Advancement
- Details about a Coaches Clinic Opportunity
- Texas Competition Model Change and State Championship
- What to Expect Next?
FTC Season at a Glance
The 2025–2026 FIRST Tech Challenge season is packed with opportunities for teams to compete, learn, and connect with the community.
Our season has three key phases.
Pre-Season
September – October
Kickoffs take place in early September, where teams learn the details of this season's Challenge.
Teams design and build their robots, meet with other teams and STEM professionals, and attend local training opportunities.
Many regions have scrimmage and workshop events to help teams and volunteers prepare for the competitions.
Main Season
November – February
Most teams will compete in league events or single-day qualifier tournaments.
This is the busy part of our season, with some regions offering events nearly every weekend.
Post Season for Advancing Teams
February – June
Teams that advance to Regionals or beyond will have a longer season that includes our statewide celebration events and the FIRST® Championship.