Q & A: Academic Challenge

Q&A: Academic Challenge

By Luke West Poley

You can watch Luke’s Sports Report on Channel 85 Productions THS Daily News.

After a conference championship last year, a revamped roster for the Academic Challenge team looks to defend their title after the graduation of their star, Shr-Hua Moore. We caught up with head coach Scott Schmid to tell us about the team, their upcoming season, and the competition itself.

Q: What is Academic Challenge? Who is involved?

A: Academic Challenge is a trivia competition between two teams of four.  The categories are 95% school based with an occasional pop culture/sports question.  If who is involved is asking for people:  Paul Bolenbaugh, Jens Bartel, Daryl Zazycki, Michelle Miao, Jean Pateman, Ellie Radlinski, Zainab Khan, Ben Zazycki, Hannah Hoblitzell, Lydia Bartel and Bodhi Ney. [With additional competitors opting out due to Covid concerns]

Q: What are your expectations for the team this year and how do you stack up against your competition? 

A:  Last year our team went 14-0 in SWOC play.  Our closest match last year was against Little Miami and they are no longer in the league.  We return 4 of our top players from last year, but one great player at another school can make a huge difference.  My first goal every year for varsity, is to win SWOC and for the JV team to have fun and a winning record.  I feel these goals are in reach.  We have qualified for regionals and  the first four names listed earlier will lead us hopefully to a high finish.

Q: How will you deal with the new look of the team after graduating four seniors?

A: Last year we graduated Shr-Hua Moore, the best player I coached and three other seniors. While Shr-Hua will be difficult to replace, the varsity players have improved their skills and we can be better than last year’s team by the end of the season.

The Academic Challenge team opens their season at home on Jan. 13 versus Edgewood, and their final match of the year will be Feb. 10 against archrival Harrison.