02. May 2025
Revolutionizing Youth Engineering: Asheboro High School Launches Pioneering Drone Soccer Program
Asheboro High School’s Drone Soccer Program: Building the Next Generation of Aerospace Talent
In North Carolina, Asheboro High School has established a drone soccer program that is revolutionizing the way students learn about aerospace engineering and technology. Led by educator Wendy Graham and coordinated through the school’s Global Innovation Center and technology department under the guidance of Chief Information Officer Anthony Woodyard, this program is not only preparing students for careers in the aerospace industry but also fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
Drone soccer is an emerging sport that requires students to design, build, program, and fly drones within protected spheres in a competitive team-based environment. This activity mirrors real-world aerospace engineering challenges and provides students with hands-on experience in system engineering, flight testing, and drone calibration. By participating in this program, students are developing essential skills such as problem-solving, persistence, brainstorming, and research – skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.
The program’s success can be attributed to the dedication of its leaders, including Wendy Graham and Anthony Woodyard. Graham has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and ensuring that students receive comprehensive training in drone systems and aerospace engineering principles. Woodyard has played a crucial role in securing resources and support for the team, allowing students to access cutting-edge technology and collaborate with industry experts.
The results of this program are already evident. Asheboro High School’s drone soccer teams have won the Regional Championship and are now preparing to compete at the National level, representing North Carolina on the national stage. Students like Marvin Reyes and Rohan Taya, both in 9th grade, have benefited from the program, learning valuable skills such as component identification, system installation, and flight control calibration.
Marvin Reyes, a team member, shared his experience: “I’ve learned every component of the drone, how to build it properly, and install settings using Betaflight. I never expected to learn so much.” Rohan Taya emphasized the program’s impact on his leadership skills: “Drone soccer has taught me a lot of aerospace terminology. You need coordination to fly as a team, so someone has to step up.”
Jaycoll Reyes, a junior and team member, highlighted the program’s benefits beyond technical skills: “Drone soccer has become an ambassador for aviation and STEM. We’ve spoken at elementary schools, board meetings, and to state officials – showing what’s possible when education, innovation, and passion align.”
The impact of this program extends beyond the school walls, with students becoming ambassadors for aviation and STEM. They have spoken at elementary schools, board meetings, and to state officials, showcasing the potential of drone soccer as a tool for education and innovation. By participating in this program, students are not only developing essential skills but also gaining exposure to the aerospace industry and its many opportunities.
As the demand for skilled aerospace engineers and technicians continues to grow, programs like Asheboro High School’s drone soccer initiative are crucial in identifying and developing future talent. By providing students with hands-on experience in system engineering, flight testing, and drone calibration, these programs are equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in this rapidly evolving industry.
In conclusion, Asheboro High School’s drone soccer program is a shining example of innovation and collaboration in education. Led by dedicated educators like Wendy Graham and Anthony Woodyard, this program is building the next generation of aerospace talent. By providing students with comprehensive training in drone systems and aerospace engineering principles, this program is preparing them for careers in the aerospace industry while fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork.
The success of this program serves as a testament to the power of education and innovation in shaping the next generation of aerospace professionals. By equipping students with hands-on experience in system engineering, flight testing, and drone calibration, programs like Asheboro High School’s drone soccer initiative are poised to identify and develop future talent in this rapidly evolving industry.
Paul Rossi, a US Army Veteran and President at Nine Ten Drones, a North Carolina-based drone services company, training center, and reseller, is passionate about the aviation industry. A graduate of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) and the U.S. Army Aviation Logistics School, Rossi holds both a Private Pilot’s License with Instrument Rating for manned aircraft and a Part 107 Remote Pilot’s Certificate. Rossi is currently studying for his MS Space Operations from ERAU, eager to expand his reach beyond Earth’s atmosphere.