GSSM Robotics Team Heads To International Invitational In Chicago

After an impressive showing at the 2025 FIRST Robotics World Championship, the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) robotics team, the Golden Dragons (Team 772), has been invited to compete at the Chicago Robotics Invitational (CRI), taking place July 18–19.

The CRI is an elite international competition that draws FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) teams from around the world. Known for its high-level gameplay and unique field modifications, CRI presents competitors with new technical and strategic challenges. This year, 22 of the 38 teams earned their place through the FIRST Premier Event advancement system. The Golden Dragons applied for one of the remaining 16 coveted spots and were selected.

“We are thrilled that the Golden Dragons’ hard work, focus, and leadership have earned them a spot at the Chicago Robotics Invitational,” said Dr. Neval Erturk, vice president for academics at GSSM. “At the 2025 FIRST Robotics World Championship, Golden Dragons had the unique opportunity to join forces with students from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) during the division playoffs. This was a remarkable collaboration between two of the nation’s most rigorous STEM high schools. I am incredibly proud of how students from both the South Carolina and North Carolina Governor’s Schools came together on one of the world’s biggest robotics stages. That kind of cross-state teamwork embodies the very best of what GSSM values and what FIRST represents: innovation, excellence, and the power of collaboration.”

To read the full press release, click here.