Find a Team
Here are some ideas on finding or starting an FTC or FLL team :)
Here are some ideas on finding or starting an FTC or FLL team :)
Check your school — ask a STEM/robotics teacher, principal, or after-school coordinator to see if they are interested in adding you to their team or if they are interested in starting one.
Ask nearby middle/high school students — many run/mentor or host teams.
Look for community options: makerspaces, libraries, Boys & Girls Clubs, scouting troops, church youth groups, and homeschool co-ops often sponsor teams.
Visit FIRST’s team-locator pages (FIRST LEGO League & FTC) to search by zip/city — they list registered teams and regional contacts.
Contact your Regional FIRST Volunteer or Affiliate Partner (listed on FIRST’s site) — they can point you to teams or events.
Search social media & local groups:
Facebook: search “FLL [your city]”, “FTC [your city]”, “FIRST Robotics [your area]”
Meetup: robotics, STEM, or maker meetups
Instagram / X: local teams post at competitions
Email or call nearby makerspaces, libraries, and STEM nonprofits — they often host seasonal programs.
Attend a scrimmage/competition or a community STEM fair to meet teams and coaches in person.
Decide which program: FLL (elementary/middle, LEGO-based) or FTC (middle/high, metal/Android-based).
Recruit 2–12 students (FLL) or the team size your region requires for FTC (usually ~6–15 active students).
Find at least 1 adult mentor/coach (teachers, parents, college students, engineers).
Register with FIRST, secure a practice space, and gather basic equipment (LEGO kits for FLL; drivetrain parts, controllers, tools for FTC).
Budget: fundraiser, school/club support, or local sponsorships (many teams get local business help).
Use local FIRST resources and mentor networks for training and paperwork.
Email subject: “Interested in joining an FLL/FTC team — [student name/grade/city]”
Message:
Hi — I’m interested in joining (or starting) an FLL / FTC team in [city or school name]. I’m a [student/parent/teacher], grade [X], and we’re looking for options after school or on weekends. Could you tell me if your team has openings or if you know other teams nearby? Happy to help with volunteering or fundraising. Thanks! — [Name & contact info]
Age/grade: FLL is typically elementary/middle; FTC is middle→high (check your region for exact ranges).
Deadlines: registration and qualifying events follow the FIRST season calendar — try to connect before the season begins.
If funding is a problem: ask local businesses, use GoFundMe, or apply for community grants.