U.S. Drone Soccer
U.S. Drone Soccer
Build it. Fly it. Compete.
Virginia Tech’s U.S. Drone Soccer program combines esports-style competition with hands-on learning in aviation, engineering and drone technology.
Students in grades 6-12 work in teams to build, test, repair, program and pilot drones before putting their skills to the test in fast-paced 5-on-5 matches. Along the way, participants explore the science of flight, uncrewed aircraft systems and engineering while developing teamwork, problem-solving and technical skills.
2026-27 Program Schedule
Fall 2026 | |
|---|---|
| Saturday, Sept. 19 | 9 am - 1 pm |
| Saturday, Oct. 3 | 9 am - 1 pm |
Spring 2027 | |
| Friday, Jan. 23 | 9 am - 1 pm |
| Sunday, Feb. 8 | 9 am - 1 pm |
| Friday, Feb. 20 | 9 am - 1 pm |
| Wednesday, March 4 | 9 am - 1 pm |
| Friday, March 13 | 9 am - 1 pm |
Competition Opportunities
The 2026-27 program also includes opportunities for students to take their skills beyond Virginia Tech.
Program plans include competition in North Carolina on April 10, with six teams expected to participate, followed by a national competition in Florida May 18-19.
Ready to Take Flight?
Build a drone, develop your piloting skills and experience STEM through team-based competition.
Registration fee: $300
Pathway scholarships are available.
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Program Overview:
At a glance
Grades: 6-12
Format: Eight sessions; approximately 40 hours of programming
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Virginia Tech Academic Building One, Alexandria, Virginia
Cost: $300; pathway scholarships are available
Registration: Opens in September 2026
Learn STEM Through Competition
Drone Soccer gives students an opportunity to learn by building, experimenting and competing.
Participants work with their teams to prepare drones for competition while gaining practical experience with technology and engineering concepts.
Build, Test & Repair
Students learn how drone systems are assembled and maintained, troubleshoot problems and make adjustments as they prepare for competition.
Program & Pilot
Participants develop skills in operating and programming drones while exploring concepts related to flight, control systems and uncrewed aircraft technology.
Compete as a Team
Drone Soccer is played in 5-on-5 matches, bringing together technical skills, strategy and teamwork in an esports-inspired environment.
Students learn to communicate, collaborate and respond to challenges in real time as they compete alongside their teammates.
Explore Aviation & Engineering Careers
The program connects hands-on drone experiences with the broader world of STEM careers.
Through aviation, robotics, engineering and uncrewed aircraft systems, students can explore technologies used across a growing range of industries while developing skills that support future college and career pathways.
