By Coach Stephen Smith Venturing out into subzero temperatures and braving Michigan’s wintry wonderland, the White Cloud Varsity Quiz Bowl contingent contended against top tier opponents at the inaugural Mitten Cup Tournament. The invitational was held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Mount Pleasant High School under the direction of the Long Island Quiz Bowl Alliance. The field consisted of 36 teams with a dramatic range of strength, ability, and academic prowess. The reigning Class C-D state champion Indians (5-5) battled all day in preparation for conference, state, and national contests. In the preliminary rounds, the quizessential quartet experienced considerable success against tremendously talented teams. Undergoing an awakening in their first match, the fearsome foursome triumphed over Detroit Catholic Central D, a state powerhouse and national juggernaut program, with a result of 240-185. In the ensuing match, the exuberant ensemble dispatched Roscommon A 215-165. In their only loss of the morning, the contingent faltered 125-460 against Utica Academy for International Studies, an eventual finalist in the grand championship for the tournament. The valiant vanguard quickly rebounded, winning their next contest against Nouvel Catholic 190-85. In the final game of the early bracket, the squad prevailed over Traverse City Central B 200-115, earning a place in the afternoon championship rounds. Facing off against incredibly stiff competition in the championship bracket, the varsity players flexed their abilities defeating East Lansing A 235-195 in an excitingly close contest. Never wavering through adversity, the team continued to total up points against top notch Class A schools in their losses to Grosse Pointe South, Detroit Catholic Central B, Grand Ledge, and Utica Academy. The hardship of defeat will undoubtedly lead to more success in the future at state and national competitions. Nevertheless, White Cloud remained the highest rated Class C-D team in the invitational with a 9th place finish. Looking at the exploits of individual players, the sensational squad was led in scoring by senior Captain Brian Schaefer, who unloaded in a barrage of 365 points. Samuel Viher uncorked 140 points exhibiting yet another quality outing for himself. Wyatt Karnes popped off 110 points and Jarrett Warlick unbottled 90 points, demonstrating a laudable and celebratory team effort. Coach Stephen Smith and the team would like to specifically thank Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie, Assistant Coach Allison McPhall, Assistant Coach Arnie Baker, and Assistant Coach Dallas Dowling. In addition, the team would like to extend their gratitude to all the parents, teachers, staff, administrators, donors, and community members who support the team. Without you, none of the team’s success would be possible.
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April 2024
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