The Perry High School Academic Team is putting together an impressive season, earning an undefeated district record and an 11-1 record in the Tall Grass Academic Conference. The team's success has also secured the Maroons the number one seed in their bracket heading into Regional competition, scheduled for November 14 in Hennessey.
Coached by Kevin Bond and Garrett Davis, the team has built its success through consistent practice, individual preparation and strong teamwork.
The team meets twice a week during lunch to practice, with most sessions designed to simulate actual competition. Students divide into two teams, set up the buzzers and work through practice questions in a format similar to a real match.
While regular practice plays an important role, Bond said much of the team's success comes from the initiative students take outside of those sessions.
"Where our students really step up is that on their own they go out and study possible quiz topics, often specializing on whatever subject interests them," Bond said.
Those areas of interest can range from mythology, government, mathematics and astronomy to art history, literature, music and movies. By developing individual areas of expertise, students bring a wide range of knowledge to the team.
Another strength Bond highlighted is the team's ability to make strategic decisions during competition. Only four students can compete at a time, so selecting the right combination of players for each round can make a difference.
The team typically begins a match with the four students who have the highest number of correct responses during practice. However, as a match progresses, players may rotate depending on the topics expected in upcoming rounds. Bond said students do an excellent job recognizing who may be best suited for a particular topic and making substitutions accordingly. They also work together to ensure everyone has an opportunity to compete.
Bond said he is proud of the effort students have put into the program, both individually and as a team.
"Basically, I think the kids have done a great job of stepping up to put in the work and have a fun time with the Academic Team," Bond said.
Members of the Perry High School Academic Team include Quinton Bell, Max Carris, Jordan Hedrick, Erica Lang-Seabourn, Lilly Maxwell, Jonathan McLaughlin, Emma Steele and Leighanna Vance.
With an undefeated district record, an 11-1 conference standing and the No. 1 seed heading into Regionals, the Maroons have plenty to be proud of as they prepare for their next competition.