By Nesrin Hanish
ITKAN Girls FRC Team 10340 proudly participated in STEM GALS 2026, demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and determination throughout a day of competition. Despite facing mechanical challenges along the way, the team persevered, secured the third seed during qualification matches, and went on to captain the third alliance alongside 8732 Trinity Force and 5790 Proto-Titans. Together, the alliance advanced through the playoffs and ultimately earned the title of Event Finalists, finishing second overall.
The achievement reflected the hard work and preparation the girls had invested leading up to the event. Despite challenges faced throughout the day, they remained focused on finding solutions and supporting one another. Rather than allowing these setbacks to define their performance, the team continued to adapt, demonstrating the persistence and problem-solving mindset that are central to robotics.
A Playoff Run Defined by Resilience
With alliance selection complete, ITKAN Girls 10340 and its alliance partners entered the playoffs ready to compete. Each match presented a new challenge, requiring the teams to refine their strategy, make adjustments, and work together under pressure.
The alliance opened its playoff run in Match 4 as the red alliance, securing a convincing 373–142 victory. Building on that momentum, the team returned for Match 8 as the blue alliance and earned another win, finishing with a score of 293–137.
Match 11 proved to be a particularly close contest. Competing as the blue alliance, the team narrowly lost 245–258, with just 13 points separating the alliances. However, the result did not discourage the team. Instead, ITKAN and its alliance partners regrouped, remained determined, and prepared for their next opportunity.
That determination carried into Match 13, where the alliance competed as the red alliance and secured another victory with a score of 230–153.
The alliance’s playoff journey culminated in a closely contested final. Although the teams fought hard until the end, ITKAN Girls 10340 and its alliance partners finished as event finalists, securing second place at STEM GALS 2026.
Looking Ahead
ITKAN Girls 10340 is proud of the effort that brought the team to this milestone and grateful for the opportunity to compete alongside its alliance partners. The event finalist finish marks an achievement worth celebrating and a reminder that setbacks can become opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow.