This spring, the Science Olympiad Team traveled to Wichita State University to compete at the annual state tournament, wherein the team placed 12th overall. 

Science Olympiad comprises 23 independent events, and each fits into one of three categories: test, live and build events. This year, the team placed silver in two events, and bronze in one. 

“It’s incredibly fulfilling since I’ve been in the club since freshman year,” senior Abby Coons said. “It’s really cool to see how successful you’ve been because we’ve been able to go to state every single year.” 

In addition to placing at state, the team has seen a successful season overall, placing eighth at the regional tournament, all of which has served to boost team morale. 

“It’s been really exciting that how we performed at regionals was really good,” senior Grace Xie said. “we knew we had the potential to place, but to actually place was really exciting.” 

According to the team, this year’s successes could not have come without dedication and camaraderie. Everything from prepping all materials needed for competition to collaboration and independent preparation for events has led to a fruitful season. 

Team sponsor and coach Mike Colvin describes the preparation process and commitment of the team, explaining that the group work put in outside of class, as well as the individual work team members take the incentive to do, has led to a successful season. 

“There’s a lot of collaboration, a lot of cooperation, and camaraderie. These are smart kids who want to succeed and are willing to put in the time to do that,” Colvin said. 

The team believes that they hold camaraderie and drive that has pushed them through the finish line at the top this season, and members hope to see that success continue in the future with the recruitment of new members and the competitive success of current underclassmen.