![students work together at the academic bowl competition]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1774554425/tulsaschoolsorg/dnsj3koor2mylvrfpu6f/CarverAcademicBowl2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1774554425/tulsaschoolsorg/dnsj3koor2mylvrfpu6f/CarverAcademicBowl2.jpg","width":480}])
Although the Edison Eagles won the last two district tournaments, this year they are a fairly new team with only one returning member. According to Coach Duncan, the students are committed to excellence, constantly studying material, and asking for new questions to practice. The Edison team developed their own pre-tournament ritual for the academic bowl: rubbing a breakfast burrito. Team member Drapor Andrews says this unique practice helps unite the group and ease nerves before competition. Beyond their unconventional tradition, the team has built a strong bond through countless hours of practice and friendly competition. The thrill of buzzing in first during a match and the shared excitement when someone nails a difficult question have created memories that extend far beyond trophies and rankings. For this group, the real victory lies in the camaraderie they've developed and the intellectual challenges they tackle as a team.
Memorial Middle School Chargers
These students have discovered that competition isn’t just about winning — it’s about learning, growing, and having fun along the way. In fact, these students are beginning to realize just how fun mentally competing with your brain can be instead of just physical sports! But what makes this team truly special is their teamwork. They support one another, celebrate each other’s strengths, and work together to improve after every match. When they return from competitions, they don’t keep their experiences to themselves. Instead, they share what they’ve learned with teachers and classmates, spreading motivation and raising the bar for everyone at Memorial. Memorial’s academic bowl team isn’t just competing — they’re building a culture of excellence. And they’re proving that when teamwork and determination come together, great things happen.
Thoreau Demonstration Academy Timberwolves
Thoreau Demonstration Academy launched a new team this year with a group of enthusiastic sixth graders and first-time coach Tina Lamirand. The team's formation began modestly when 6th grader Morgan Nwaiwu became the sole member, spending weeks recruiting classmates to join. Morgan’s persistence paid off, forming a complete team of students who initially had no idea what academic bowl was.
The rookie team exceeded all expectations at their first tournament, winning two out of three matches despite pre-competition jitters and uncertainty about what lay ahead. While the students admit their favorite part of academic bowl might currently be the pizza and cookies, Coach Lamirand sees something special developing. "I love how excited they get when they get a question correct," she said. For a brand new team still finding its footing, Thoreau's first tournament success suggests a bright future ahead for these young scholars.
Monroe Demonstration Academy Mustangs
Monroe students brought their enthusiasm for knowledge and a drive to compete at their best. With a dedicated coach and the support of their school community, this team is building the foundation for what promises to be an exciting and rewarding academic journey. Mustangs coach, Ms. Sharalyn Leslet, shared, “This team loves coming together and competing no matter the outcome. They enjoy competing and having fun.”
Carver Middle School Wildcats
The academic bowl program at Carver brings together students who love learning and the spirit of friendly competion. Carver team members spent weeks getting ready, practicing their buzzer skills, and testing their knowledge on everything from history to science. The tournament gave students a chance to show what they know and have fun competing against other schools. Win or lose, the experience helped the Wildcats build confidence, think on their feet, and work together as a team.
“They have been very passionate and competitive eager at any opportunity to compete with each other and other teams. They are a great team that will accomplish a lot as they grow,” said Mr. Allen.
Hale Middle School Rangers
Hale students enjoyed their time at the academic bowl. They approached each session with school pride and a genuine love of learning. The academic bowl has become a celebrated part of the Hale's culture, encouraging students to see academic achievement as something worth striving for and celebrating together. The competition provided Hale students an opportunity to challenge themselves intellectually while also building teamwork, quick thinking, and confidence under pressure.
Rogers College Middle School Ropers
Rogers College Middle School students have embraced academic bowl competitions with tremendous school spirit and a passion for intellectual challenge. The fast-paced nature of the competitions pushed students to stay sharp and composed under pressure, skills that extend well beyond the classroom and serve them throughout their academic careers. Competing at the academic bowl allowed Rogers’ student to establish connections with like-minded peers who share a love of learning.