Saginaw Valley State University Primary Logo
Students working on their robots

FIRST Robotics State Finals at Saginaw Valley State University


Thursday, April 16 - Saturday, April 18, 2026

We at Saginaw Valley State University salute all the FIRST Robotics programs throughout Michigan. We have appreciated the opportunity to host the finals since 2017. We are excited to host the 2026 event again in April on our welcoming suburban campus in Michigan's Great Lakes Bay Region. Below is information to help you enjoy your time visiting the number-two-ranked university campus in Michigan.

News & Updates

  • NEW! - All concessions are now cashless
  • Venue Rules
    • Includes hours for team meal locations
  • Pits: Pits are 9' wide x 10' deep and include a 110v outlet.
  • Food/Catering (click FIRST logo):
    Select from Subway, Papa Johns, Panda Express, Einstein Bros Bagels (various options include buffet, Pasta Feast, Nacho Taco Bar, etc.)
    • Food trucks that are scheduled to be on site include (but subject to change): Bad Wolf, Franks and Bones, Proper Taco, Kona, Toms, Kettle 
  • STUDENTS - Our always-popular FREE State Finals T-shirt will again be offered as a thank-you for completing a simple registration form. Check out this year's design.
  • Campus Food Locations Hours (Hours may change leading up to event): 
    • Marketplace Buffet:
      Th 7:30a-9p • F 7:30a-8p • S 11a-8p
    • Fieldhouse concessions (1st floor):
      Th / F 8a-6p • S 8a-2p
    • South concessions (2nd floor):
      Th / F / Sat, 10a-6p
    • Cardinal Cafe with Subway & Panda Express (near Zahnow Library):
      Th 10:30a-7:30p • F 10:30a-3p • S 11:30a-2:30p
    • Starbucks (Science East):
      Th 7:30a-7:30p • F 7:30a-4p • S 7:30a-3p
    • POD Express (Ryder Center):
      Th 8a-7p • F 8a-6p • S 8a-4p

FIRST Robotics Maps

 Download FIRST Robotics Map

 Download Load-in / Load-out Map

 Tornado Protocol - Ryder Center

 Get Directions to SVSU

Catch the Shuttle - A complimentary shuttle service will be running a continuous loop across campus to help visitors get from point A to B without delay. Avoid the hassle by parking in Lots G3, J or J1 and take the shuttle. See the FIRST Robotics Map for more detail. 

Address

Ryder Center
7400 Bay Road
University Center, MI 48604

Make the Most of Your Visit to SVSU During FIRST Robotics!

Badge from Niche.com with text saying 2026 Niche Best CollegesWhile you're on campus for FIRST Robotics, we invite you to explore everything SVSU has to offer. From our modern facilities and top-ranked housing to engaging campus experiences, there’s plenty to see and do during your visit.

It’s no surprise that SVSU is ranked #1 in the nation for best college dorms among public universities and #2 in Michigan for best college campus — and there’s no better time to experience it for yourself.

Explore Campus

Students and families on a campus tour

Campus Tours
Get a closer look at SVSU with a guided campus tour led by our student ambassadors.

Have Some Fun

Coop the mascot with a student

Find Coop & Trivia Activities
Take part in interactive activities across campus — great for students, families and teams looking for a break between competitions.

Discover & Explore

Nursing Student

Explore Academic Programs
Learn more about SVSU’s academic programs and discover majors that align with your interests in robotics, engineering, computer science and beyond. Our programs are designed to provide hands-on experience, real-world learning and strong career outcomes.

Experience the Arts

Theatre production with students

Theatre Productions
Enjoy a live performance while you're here and experience SVSU’s vibrant arts scene.

Earn While You Excel

Engineering students working on project

SVSU FIRST Robotics Scholarship
SVSU proudly supports FIRST Robotics participants with scholarship opportunities designed to recognize your hard work, innovation and teamwork. Be sure to explore how your involvement in FIRST can help make your SVSU education even more affordable.

Have to See This

Tour MFSM

Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum
Take time to visit this on-campus museum featuring impressive works and exhibits. Be sure to check hours before your visit.


Students cheering at football game

The lowest tuition in michigan

View of campus from drone

 


 

SVSU will provide reasonable accommodations for those persons with disabilities. Individuals who wish accommodations should contact The Conference Center at SVSU at 989-964-4348 at least three days prior to the need. SVSU does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical impairment, disability or veteran status in the provision of education, employment and other services.