The Volunteer State Robotics Foundation (VSRF) is bringing competitive robotics back to Clarksville for a second consecutive year, reflecting the event’s rapid growth and economic impact on the region.
The Vex Robotics competition will take place at F&M Bank Arena, a transition from last year’s Dunn Center location. The expansion accommodates a championship that now supports 42 schools fielding 96 teams representing more than 500 middle and high school students across the region. Competition is set for Friday, March 13, and Saturday, March 14.
“Events like this demonstrate Clarksville’s ability to attract visitors while supporting our students,” said Visit Clarksville Executive Director Angie Brady. “When you bring thousands of people to town for a weekend, fill over 1,600 hotel rooms, and generate more than $1 million in economic activity, everyone benefits, including our restaurants, our hotels, and our community.”
The event’s regional significance extends beyond the competition floor. Last year’s championship generated $1.02 million in visitor spending, demonstrating the tangible economic benefits of hosting STEM-focused events.
APSU’s College of STEM has emerged as a major supporter of the championship, joining a growing roster of community partners that includes Hankook, Visit Clarksville, Google, Nashville Predators and CDE Lightband.
The stakes are high for competing teams. Winners from the Clarksville event advance to the world championships, offering students a clear pathway from regional competition to international recognition.
The second annual championship represents Clarksville’s commitment to positioning itself as a regional hub for STEM education and youth development, while creating economic opportunities through sports tourism and education-focused events.
For information about the Volunteer State Robotics Foundation, visit volunteerstaterobotics.org.