SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The sport of robotics has become increasingly popular at elementary and middle schools across the United States, and, now, South Bend has been announced as one of eight global locations  for a youth robotics competition this weekend.

"The FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) is a global robotics competition that inspires young minds to explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)," organizers said.

"Teams of students from across the region will come together to showcase their innovative robots and compete in a series of challenging matches."

The South Bend event is one of eight events this summer, with others taking place in Canada, the Netherlands, Mexico, North Carolina, Kentucky, Chicago, and New England.

Organizers say the event is the second largest in the world and the largest in the United States of its kind.

The event is being hosted at the Century Center and put on by Granger Exploration And Robotics Studios (GEARS), which is a local organization that promotes STEM education and robotics among young people.

"Through partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations, GEARS provides resources and opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning and develop critical skills for the future," organizers said.

"GEARS is proud to present the inaugural FIRST Tech Challenge Michiana Premier Event."

The multi-day event also includes evening activities that give students and coaches an opportunity to build relationships and create lasting memories.

"Teams will move into their pits on Thursday, June 19 and that evening participate in an Olympic style Opening Ceremony that includes custom flags for each team, National Anthems for each country represented and guest speakers," organizers said.

"After a full day of judging and three qualifying robot rounds, Friday evening will have a Video Game Tournament and Ice Cream Social in the Bendix ESports Arena."

On Saturday, teams will finish judging and their remaining seven qualifying robot rounds. After alliances are selected, teams will get a private concert with a super-charged technical show from an 80’s cover band.

Sunday will be filled with robot finals and an Awards and Closing Ceremony in the Bendix Theater.

"In addition to proudly showcasing our local community as a hub of continuous growth and innovation, we anticipate a significant economic impact on the area," organizers said.

"Making this an incredible honor to bring to the beautiful City of South Bend."

The South Bend event will be following the standard robot game and judging guidelines for the competition