The Colorado SKIES Academy (CSA) middle school drone soccer team, CSA TopDrone, has made headlines by winning first place at the Drone Soccer World Cup during the Sun N' Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for the young team but also underscores the growing importance of drone soccer as a platform for nurturing future talent in aerospace and STEM disciplines.
Competing against their peers from around the globe from April 3-5, 2025, CSA TopDrone stood out as the only middle school team in the tournament. Their journey to the World Cup was preceded by a third-place finish at the Drone Soccer Rocky Mountain Regional Championships on March 15, 2025, at Colorado State University, setting the stage for their international success.
Beyond their competitive achievements, the team has played a pivotal role in elevating the sport through mentorship and sharing technical insights. Their interactions with aerospace professionals, including Blue Angels pilots and U.S. military representatives, have provided invaluable experiences that extend beyond the playing field.
The involvement of CSA alumni, such as Harlow Medina and Tyler Coryell, in coaching and supporting the team highlights the program's lasting impact on its participants. Their contributions exemplify how drone soccer serves as a bridge to future opportunities in aerospace and technology.
Coach Roy Coryell emphasizes that the team's accomplishments reflect the core values of CSA: innovation, leadership, and a deep passion for aviation. By competing on national and international stages, these young athletes are not just winning accolades; they are laying the groundwork for careers that could shape the future of aerospace technology and innovation.
This story is significant for HR vendors and professionals in the talent management sector as it illustrates the potential of specialized educational programs in preparing the next generation of STEM professionals. The success of CSA TopDrone serves as a case study in how hands-on, competitive learning experiences can inspire students to pursue careers in high-demand fields, offering insights into the evolving landscape of talent development in the aerospace industry.
