Uncover the Mystery: The 2025–2026 FTC Season Begins with DECODE™
- Renee Becker-Blau
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 20
Much like an archaeologist brushing away layers of dust to reveal an ancient relic, FTC teams this September will sweep away the unknown and uncover a brand-new challenge!
On September 6, 2025, the DECODE™ season, presented by RTX, invites teams to become explorers of the world’s artifacts, piecing together clues and unlocking secrets hidden in plain sight.
Inspired by the spirit of discovery, FTC teams will examine artifacts, interpret their meaning, and use creativity and engineering to bring hidden stories to life through robotics.
🔍 What Happens at FTC Kickoff?
Kickoff is the moment the mystery is revealed. Whether you’re a rookie team just unearthing your first season or a veteran crew of codebreakers, you’ll get to:
Watch the official game reveal and see this season’s challenge for the first time.
Explore the field and game elements in person.
Swap ideas and strategies with other teams.
Ask questions and connect with local FTC experts.
🗺 Where to Begin Your DECODE™ Adventure
We’re making sure no matter where your team is based, you can join the excitement. This season, FIRST Wisconsin is hosting six FTC Kickoff events across the state:
Saturday, September 6, 2025:
Saturday, September 13, 2025:
Full event details, including exact times and registration links, will be available on the FIRST Wisconsin Kickoff Events Page.
🧭 Tips for Teams Before Kickoff
Like any great expedition, the more prepared you are, the more you’ll discover:
Pack your tools – Bring notebooks, cameras, and a way to take measurements of game elements.
Bring your crew – Kickoff is better when the whole team is there to brainstorm.
Ask questions – Veteran teams are an incredible source of wisdom.
Review past seasons – Look at previous FTC challenges to see different types of designs.
Have fun – The first day sets the tone for the season. Keep the energy positive!
🏆 Your Adventure Awaits
On September 6th and 13th, the adventure begins!
New designs will emerge from raw ideas, strategies will be unearthed through trial and error, and teams will write their own chapters in the history of FIRST Tech Challenge. From the moment the challenge is revealed to the final competition match, DECODE™ will be a season of exploration, curiosity, and breakthrough discoveries.
So grab your safety glasses, charge up your tools, and get ready—this is your call to the starting line of an epic adventure.
Renee Becker-Blau
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