By Saif Salim '20

Known statewide for debate, Model UN, fine arts, and athletics, Heritage Hall is also making its mark on Academic Bowl, a Jeopardy-style game in which teams compete head-to-head to answer questions from all areas of knowledge, including history, literature, math, science, fine arts, current events, sports, and popular culture.

When club president Gene Moon ’18 set out a year ago to re-establish Heritage Hall Academic Bowl, it was with a mindset of showcasing the School’s academic programs and talents. The team performed well, taking second at State.

Looking to build on its success, this year’s team – consisting of Sukanya Bhattacharya ’20, Benjamin Bowen ’19, Sarah Curran ’21, Jacob Livesay ’19, Michael Mandanas ’18, Gene Moon ’18, Winston Scambler ’18, Luke Stewart ’18, Aneirin Truong ’19, Turner Watkins ’19, and Luke Williams ’18 – began meeting last week.

Club sponsor Robert Ring and his team discussed 18th-century authors, ancient gods, obscure facts of history, and hyper-specific medical science knowledge in the same casual manner as one would talk about Hollywood celebrities, football, or the weather. They used mathematical terminology that I was sure only a college mathematics major or professor could understand. It was fascinating!

As “lightning rounds” – during which a question is asked and the first person to buzz in with the correct answer wins the point – ensued, the energy in the room became intense and focused, like a racehorse at the gate, ready to take off around the track. I was amazed as questions were answered after only two or three words of a question were read.

With several returning members and three National Merit Semifinalists on board, this year’s team has high expectations and powerhouse potential. “We definitely want to win state and I am confident in our ability to achieve that goal. In addition, five members of our team are seniors, so I want to inspire others to participate in Academic Bowl and do everything I can to help ensure a bright future for the club,” Moon said.