On September 16, Grand River Makerspace hosted its first-ever combat robotics event as part of Grand Rapids Tech Week. It was the finish line for our founding season, and it went better than we could have hoped. An estimated 150 people came through over the course of the night to watch 1-lb plastic antweight robots battle it out in the arena.
Introducing
GRAND RIVER RUMBLE
Our league's official name: a place for builders of every experience level to design, 3D print, and fight 1-lb plastic antweight robots right here in Walker.
Sportsmanship Stole the Show
The fights were great, but the best part of the night happened between them. Competitors shared their expertise to help each other get bots running, and they loaned out remotes. One builder even handed a spare robot to a kid whose bot wouldn't work, so that kid could still get into the arena. That's the spirit we want the Grand River Rumble to be known for.
📸 Photos & Videos
Missed it, or want to relive it?
See the full album:
🗓️ What's Next: A Saturday in November
The next Grand River Rumble will be on a Saturday in November: the 14th, 21st, or 28th. It will be at Grand River Makerspace, 25 N. Park St, Walker. We're still deciding the format and would love your input. It could be a tournament or another rumble.
🎄 Idea on the Table: Holiday Bash
We're considering a festive rumble to close out the year, with a robot decorating contest and a prize for the Most Festive bot. Tell us what you think in the survey!
👕 T-Shirts Are Coming
We're designing Grand River Rumble shirts with a logo and hope to have them ready by November. Every paid league registrant gets one. Extra shirts will be available for purchase for family, friends, and supporters.
💲 Join the League for Just $30
The 2026 season wraps up at the end of the year, so November registration is reduced to $30 (normally $50), and a shirt is included.
🛠️ Need a Robot?
Most of our league's bots are Palm Beach Bots plastic ant kits. They're beginner-friendly, easy to assemble, and come with files so you can print your own spare parts. Base kits run about $94–$160, plus a radio and charger if you don't already have them. Full pricing is on our wiki page.
🙋 Not a Builder? Volunteer!
We're always looking for help with check-in, weigh-ins, safety inspections, and judging. No technical skills required.
See you in the arena! 🤖
GRAND RIVER MAKERSPACE