BLAST Robotics Earns Playoff Spot at HAVOC

The Berwyn-based FIRST Robotics team advanced to the playoffs at the off-season HAVOC 2026 competition in Horsham.

Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Robotics

BLAST Robotics Earns Playoff Spot at HAVOC

BLAST Robotics, a Berwyn-based FIRST Robotics Competition team numbered 10989, earned a playoff appearance at the HAVOC 2026 off-season competition held Oct. 31 at Hatboro-Horsham High School. The team was also selected first by Alliance 7 during the event.

Why it matters

The result reflects a robot built for the off-season competition by student leaders and the performance of newer members who took on operations, pit activities and event management. It offers an early look at the team's momentum ahead of its next season.

BLAST Robotics, team 10989, was selected first by Alliance 7 at the Oct. 31 HAVOC 2026 event, which is the only quantified outcome reported. The team's final placement at the tournament has not been disclosed.

The players

BLAST Robotics

BLAST Robotics is a Berwyn-based FIRST Robotics Competition team that competes in regional and off-season robotics events in the Pennsylvania area.

Keystone STEM Alliance Inc.

Keystone STEM Alliance Inc. is the organization under which BLAST Robotics operates, supporting STEM education programs in the region.

The details

Newer BLAST members assumed responsibilities for robot operations, pit activities and event management, while student leaders Vivaan, Lemuel, Virat, Anabel and Mayon built a new robot for the off-season event. The team operates under Keystone STEM Alliance Inc. and is supported by Eadeh Enterprises, AEO Better World Foundation and Chester County Community Foundation.

Earlier in the 2026 season, BLAST earned the Rookie All-Star Award at the FIRST Mid-Atlantic Centennial District Event and the Rising All-Star Award at the Philadelphia District Event.
Oct. 31, 2026: BLAST Robotics earned a playoff appearance at the HAVOC 2026 competition at Hatboro-Horsham High School in Horsham.

Season Trajectory

BLAST's off-season showing at HAVOC 2026 follows its district-level awards earlier in the FIRST Robotics Competition season, building a track record of competitive recognition. The team's attention now shifts to technical training and leadership development ahead of the 2027 season.

For students and families in the Berwyn area, the team's off-season results show how hands-on robotics programs can offer leadership roles and technical experience outside the traditional classroom. Local STEM participation like this is available to students who want to join a team or support one through community funding.

The takeaway

Community investment and student-led teamwork can carry a robotics program from district recognition into off-season success. Students interested in similar activities can look for local FIRST teams that welcome new members in operations and event roles.