FAQ · Slugger Signature Event

Does Saturday check-in start at 6 AM or 6 PM? Is it required?: Saturday check-in and inspection take place in the evening, from 6:00–8:00 PM Eastern on December 5. Checking in Saturday is strongly recommended, but it is not required. This helps reduce the Sunday morning rush. The competition area may still be under setup during Saturday check-in.
Can our team check in and complete inspection Sunday morning?: Yes. Sunday morning check-in and inspection run from 7:30–9:30 AM Eastern on December 6. Qualification matches begin at 9:45 AM. Arrive early and allow time to complete both; your robot must pass inspection before qualification matches. See the Middle School agenda or High School agenda for the competition schedule.
Will Middle School and High School teams compete together?: Middle School teams will compete in their own division. The High School event will have two divisions. Earlier emails discussed a possible blended event, but the newer plan keeps Middle School and High School competition separate.
Where can we find hotel blocks near the venue?: Louisville Tourism has arranged room blocks for Slugger teams and families. View hotel options and book at hotel.louisvillesignature.com. Book early: other major events are taking place in Louisville the same weekend. See Venue & Travel for more travel information.
Do we have to book through the event hotel link?: No. You may book through the event hotel site, directly with a hotel, or elsewhere. REACT Robotics does not earn money from these hotel reservations; the room blocks are offered to help teams and families plan their stay.
Should we budget for parking?: Yes. Plan for paid parking rather than an included event parking space. Downtown hotels charge parking fees, so check with your hotel when comparing room options. The convention center is in the heart of downtown; choosing a hotel within walking distance can help avoid moving your vehicle each day. Final bus and trailer instructions will be shared in the event logistics guide.
Can our school register using a purchase order or the Pay Later option?: Yes. Select the Pay Later option during registration and upload your purchase order to VEX. Registration payments are handled through VEX. If a purchase order or check is still being processed, email dale@reactrobotics.org so we know your payment status.
When is the registration payment due?: The payment deadline listed on our registration page is November 13, 2026. Please begin processing outstanding payments as soon as possible. Contact dale@reactrobotics.org if your school needs help coordinating a purchase order or payment.
What should we do if our team is on the waiting list?: Keep your team on the waiting list for the appropriate event and contact dale@reactrobotics.org with your team number and confirmation that you are still interested. Teams have been invited as space became available, but a waiting-list entry does not guarantee a competition spot.
Who should we contact if our team can no longer attend?: Email dale@reactrobotics.org with your team number as soon as your plans change. We can review your registration and discuss any cancellation, replacement-team, or refund questions directly. Contact us before assuming a team substitution or refund has been approved.
Which awards qualify teams for the World Championship?: The Excellence Award and Tournament Champions are designated World Qualification awards. See Judging & Awards for the full awards list.

Have a question that is not answered here? Email info@reactrobotics.org and we will add it to this page.