Academic Challenge is a team game made up of four players, and each game has two matches played in them. The season lasts from the beginning of January to the end of February. At the conclusion of the season, there is a big tournament in which many schools in the area participate. There are two rounds of tournament play; teams are eliminated once they lose two rounds, until the last team is left standing. This year’s Academic Challenge team consists of Reeve Donatelli, Joshua Makosky, Jordan Nock, Ashley Noon, Devan Palomaki, and Zack Sargent. Devan is the team captain and has enjoyed the game for several years now. Devan said, “so far it’s promising” when asked how the season is going so far. Devan is an excellent player, having scored over 100 points per game more than once. He is comfortable and excited for the tournament coming up at the end of February. He feels that they have a good chance of making it far this season.
I also interviewed Reeve, who said his favorite part is traveling with the team because they all get along and are friends. He feels it is challenging but that is why he enjoys the game; he likes to challenge himself and play to the best of his abilities. He said, “the varsity team is doing very well and the JV team is holding up their end with the limited amount of players they have.” Since they only have six players this year they will probably not have enough to have JV play in the tournament.
Overall, Academic Challenge is something not many people know about, but definitely should pay attention to. It is not an easy activity to play and you have to be very knowledgeable to join the team. It is challenging and isn’t for the weak minded, if you miss a question you need to forget about it and get ready for the next one.
Currently the Lowellville Academic Team is 10-2 this season. Good Luck to the team as they play in the league tournament in Columbiana on Saturday, February 25th.
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