Members of the Locust Valley Middle School robotics team, Falconbots, celebrated with a trophy after winning the Engineering Excellence Award at the FIRST Lego League qualifiers on Jan. 24.

The Locust Valley Middle School robotics team, the Falconbots, showcased their building and programming prowess at the FIRST Lego League qualifier on Jan. 24, earning the Engineering Excellence Award.

The team took part in matches at Mineola High School throughout the day, where their robot expertly navigated the field and the team presented their process and research to the judges. The Engineering Excellence Award honors teams with robust, durable and effective engineering, often highlighting superior structural design or complex and reliable programming. Additionally, coach Alan Stella won an Overall Coach/Mentor Award for his work throughout the entire Locust Valley program.

The Falconbots are looking forward to further successes at upcoming qualifiers throughout February and March.