Academic Challenge

Academic Challenge began in 1978 at radio station WHFB AM at the suggestion of Jim Miller, a philosophy teacher at Benton Harbor High School. It was initially called Quiz Bowl. The first match was between St. Joseph and Buchanan.

Academic Challenge is a club for students who enjoy quiz bowl type competition. The club competes in the WHFB regular season and post season tournament. They also compete in the Holland Invitational. Every fall the Bears take on the Lions Club in the annual "Brain Match". "Lion Larry" is determined to bring back the Brain Trophy after the Bears crushed the Lions last year. Everybody had a great time.

The Academic Challenge team has a long and storied tradition here at St. Joseph High School. The team was started by former teacher Timm Pschigoda back in 1978. Under the direction of Mr. Pschigoda, the Bears became serious contenders and competed for Championships every year. Today, the "Quiz Kids" are always the team to beat in Southwestern Michigan. The Bears have a runner-up and three third place finishes the past four years at the Class "B" State Tournament held on the campus of Michigan State University.

WHO: All students (grades 9-12) are welcome to join Academic Challenge.

WHEN: See Coach Etter for practice times. [email protected]

ADVISOR: Mr. Etter (room 215)