Robots, sports mascots and tables full of fun, hands-on projects greeted hundreds of students in grades four to six during LMSD's sports-themed Family STEM Night. The many displays highlighted the importance that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics play in the world of sports. 

Students had the chance to figure out the best angles to line up their mini-golf shots, measure the speed of pitches at a baseball simulator and program remote-controlled race cars to zip around the floor of the Kobe Bryant Gymnasium at Lower Merion High School. 

Student volunteers from Harriton's National Society of Black Engineers, Lower Merion's DAWGMA Robotics Team, and others from TSA and Science Olympiad set up tables to show the younger students some of the fun, competitive activities that can choose to participate in as they advance in school.

Teachers from across the District helped students with an array of hands-on sports-themed STEM craft projects, such as making their own tennis racquets and table hockey sets. Keeping score, figuring out angles for shots, measuring ball or puck velocity are all examples of STEM in sports. 

A representative from NFL Films was on hand with his Emmy, as shooting and editing sports films involves extensive use of computer technology. And physical therapists from NovaCare were there as well, explaining the importance of sciences like biology and physiology in their work. 

One of the highlights of the event was an appearance from the Phillies' mascot, the Phillie Phanatic, who posed for photos and even threw a few pitches to his buddy, the St. Joe's Hawk, who was on hand flapping his wings. 

The Family STEM Night exposes young students to the practical applications of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with the hope they will enjoy and pursue these growing fields as they get older.

The slideshow below features fun photos from the night.