The MSMS quiz bowl is ready for another season, and expectations from team members and sponsors are high this year.
The team will kick off the season at the William Rufus King Memorial Tournament on Oct. 19 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Senior Drew Dowdy said he was confident in the team’s potential.
“[In] the past three years, our team won state championships. I don’t expect anything short of that this year. We have a lot of really good people,” Dowdy said. “We’ve seen a lot of improvement from everyone, especially with the new juniors. There’s a lot of enthusiasm, and that’s something we need as we take on more tournaments this year.”
The team has built a strong record of success at state and regional competitions, which both returning and new members seek to preserve.
“We came first and second [at the] state meet, and came first, second and third at many [other] competitions,” Senior Olivia Cochran said. “All of us who were juniors last year were able to step up into leadership roles, and that’s something we’re excited about this year. We’re in the process of figuring out teams, but overall, I think it’s going to be a very good year.”
However, the team’s victories came with financial hurdles.
MSMS English teacher and quiz bowl sponsor Theo Hummer said the team’s greatest challenge last year was a low budget.
“We started [last] year with negative dollars in our bank account. We were working to get back up [from the] black, or at least up to zero, which is where we’re starting this year,” Hummer said.
Despite these financial difficulties, Dowdy said he is optimistic about being able to raise the necessary funds.
“We should be able to get funding through some fundraisers, and we host the Trash Bowl, which is a wellness seminar that doubles as a fundraiser,” Dowdy said. “I think all that combined should be able to cover our costs.”
Cochran said she thinks this year’s team is ready for competition.
“We have some good juniors who I think will bring a lot to the team, and we’re ready to take on any challenge,” Cochran said.
Beyond the competitive aspect, Hummer said the team aims to enjoy teamwork and have fun.
“We’re just focused on giving everybody a chance to play who wants to play, having a good time, enjoying quiz bowl and enjoying teamwork,” Hummer said. “Last year’s team was focused on nationals, but this year we’re focused on doing well at our state tournament, hosting our events and just making sure we have fun as a team.”
