The Potomac Winter Classic

This event is only open to members of the DMV RISE Conference.

Welcome to the Potomac Winter Classic @ The Potomac School!

Potomac Robotics is excited to host a RECF Robotics Competition tournament for the 2026–2027 season game, Pinnacle. This is a blended Middle School / High School event. 

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, January 16, 2027

• Location: The Potomac School, 1301 Potomac School Road, McLean, VA 22101

• Venue: Spangler Center. Follow event signage from the main entrance.

• Capacity: 60 teams

• Registration Fee: $140 per team

• Solo Challenge: Offered

• Judging: In-person interviews 

Check-In & Inspection

• Check-in opens at 7:00 AM and closes at 8:30 AM SHARP, so we can generate the match schedule on time.

• If your team is running late, email the Event Partner before 8:30 AM. Teams that have not checked in or contacted us may be removed from the match schedule.

• Every robot must pass inspection before competing in matches or skills.

Engineering Notebooks & Judging

• Notebooks are due by 8:30 AM at check-in.

• Judges will visit teams in the pits for interviews throughout the morning. 

 Solo

• The solo field opens at 7:45 AM for inspected teams. It stays open through lunch.

• Each team may make up to three Driving Skills attempts and three Autonomous Coding Skills attempts.

• The solo line closes at 2:30 PM. Teams not in line at that time will not be accepted.

Matches

• All teams will play at least six qualification matches.

• Alliance selection begins after the final qualification match. 

Pits & Safety

• Each team receives one pit space with a table. Power access is available.

• Please keep aisles clear and clean up your pit before leaving.

Food & Parking

• Concessions available available on-site. Pizza pre-order available

• Free parking is available on campus. 

Volunteers
We are always looking for referees, judges, inspectors, and field resetters. Please sign up through the Volunteer tab, or reach out directly.

Questions?
Contact the Event Partner, Kevin Sorto, at ksorto@potomacschool.org.

1301 Potomac School Rd McLean, VA 22101

Upon entry to The Potomac School, take a left and you will see our Spangler Center for Athletics and Community. You may unload at the curve and park anywhere in the nearby parking lot. 

Overflow parking is available throughout campus.

If the Event Partner cancels the event: 

• To cover processing fees and expenses leading up to the tournament, the refund will be $70.

If a Coach/Mentor completes registration for the event then chooses to withdraw or not attend: 

• No refund will be issued. 

Unpaid teams will be put on the waitlist on January 9, unless payment has been worked out with the EP.