(FORT MCMURRAY, AB - August 19, 2024) - Fort McMurray has had the opportunity to host several large scale sporting events over the years, now we are adding the exciting world of competitive robotics to the list! 

The 2025 Alberta Provincial VEX Championships (middle school and high school divisions) will be hosted in Fort McMurray on February 21 and 22, 2025 at the Syncrude Sport and Wellness Centre at Keyano College. Fort McMurray Catholic School Division (FMCSD) and Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) are proud to be co-sponsors of the 2025 VEX Robotics Alberta Provincial Championships. Both school divisions are excited to see the best of the best in Alberta VEX Robotics compete for spots to the VEX Robotics World Championships in our own community.

“We want to showcase our local talent and increase the number of local competitors we have progressing to higher levels of competition. For years our teams have travelled extensively to attend competitions around the province, and we would like the opportunity to showcase our region - it’s time to share with others our beautiful region and experience our city’s hospitality!” - Natasha MacArthur-Poole, Fort McMurray Catholic Schools Superintendent 

"This event presents a wonderful opportunity to showcase our vibrant city and the incredible talent within our schools. Our robotics teams have proudly competed on the world stage multiple times, and we are excited to once again demonstrate their strength and innovation. Co-sponsoring this event allows us to bring the best in Alberta VEX Robotics to our own backyard, and we look forward to celebrating the creativity, collaboration, and perseverance that define our students and our city." - Annalee Nutter, Fort McMurray Public School Division Superintendent

“Participation in competitive robotics prepares students for the increasing number of career opportunities available to them in the ever changing technology sectors of the local and global economy. Robotics gives students a creative outlet, a practical application of math and science knowledge and skills, the opportunity to hone skills in teamwork, communication, and problem solving; and, of course it is also fun! Or as we often say, ‘the hardest fun you will ever have!’” - Holly Kalma, VEX Provincials Event Lead (Head Coach - Father Mercredi High School RSports)  

Our region has produced a number of exceptional robotics teams recently including Westwood’s 221X attending the World Championship in 2024, Father Mercredi’s 5760B and 5760C attending in 2023, and Westwood’s 221W and Father Mercredi’s 5760B attending Worlds in 2022. Our Fort McMurray students have proudly represented our schools, as well as Fort McMurray, Alberta, and Canada on the world stage. 

If local organizations or individuals are interested in sponsoring and/or assisting with the 2025 VEX Robotics Alberta Provincials please reach out to Event Organizer Holly Kalma at holly.kalma@fmcsd.ab.ca.