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In January 2006, Mr. David Franc, one of our coaches, was taking a 4-H volunteer training program at the Carroll County Agricultural Center. During the training, he was approached by a parent and asked if he would be qualified to start a technology-based 4-H club. Mr. Dave approached the local 4-H Extension Office and asked if they would be interested in this idea. The extension educators were more than happy to help him form a club, and soon the SPARKS 4-H Club was born.

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Even though the club had been officially approved, it still needed help. Mr. Michael Wade, a friend of 4-H, offered his help and shared his knowledge gained by supporting youth robotics programs elsewhere. He showed videos to generate interest and help find funding sources to purchase the club's first six VEX kits and accessories. Mr. Mike encouraged the club to start a competitive team, but at the time this seemed very complicated. The club used the kits to field a small competition at the Carroll County 4-H and FFA Fair.

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Sadly, in May 2007 we lost Mr. Mike suddenly to a heart attack at too early of an age. A few months later, Mrs. Sherry Wade came to the club with a check in Mr. Mike's memory and asked us to do something Mr. Mike would be proud of. We immediately knew that we should use the money to field a competitive team for the FIRST Tech Challenge. Mr. Mike was an inspiration to many robotics teams while he worked for NASA supporting youth robotics and we were lucky to have him as a volunteer.

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A small group of 4-Hers from the SPARKS 4-H Club came together to form Team 24, the Super Sonic Sparks, and we registered a team. The team was open to all kids' from 7th to 12th grade, while the larger club is open to children ages 5 to 18.

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From humble beginnings, our team has grown over the years from one competitve robot, to fielding multiple robots, and hosting two events a year. We are continuing the journey Mr. Mike envisioned for us and enjoying every minute of the trip. Currently, we are participating in the VEX Robotics Program.

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