With the first round of competition rapidly approaching, the five captains of Academic Superbowl have been working diligently to prepare their teams for the first meet. The CHS team will be challenging other Indiana school districts for the first time in early March.

“As a team, I think we’re all getting excited for the upcoming competitions; we’re ready to test our skill,” sponsor Matt Dillon said. “It’s always interesting to see how you do. You never quite know what’s going to happen until you get there. I just hope our kids live up to the expectations they have placed upon themselves.”

Many of the subject squad leaders have established weekly meetings to prepare their teams for the first meet. For now, the main goal of the captains is to make sure all members are studying their materials and attending group meetings. According to Dillon, the captains are currently responsible for involving students who may be “apathetic, absent or non-participatory.”

As far as competition goes, it is apparent that this year will be tougher than ever in terms of rivals. Prominent rivals like Ben Davis and North Central will undoubtedly deliver high standards, which is something Dillon said he is anxious to see.

“You never quite know what a leader, or even a team, will become,” Dillon said. “It’s one thing to talk about a good group; it’s another to see them in action. I look forward to the competition for that reason. I’m excited to see what they can put out.

According to Jeff Hou, returning math captain and senior, this year’s competition will be intense and detailed.

“It’s crucial for the team as a whole to be able to know the majority of topics being covered as enumerated on the outline provided by the organization,” Hou said.

Dillon added, “Whether we like it or not, there are rivals. I don’t want to get beaten by them, but if the kids do their best and give their best performances, I’m happy with them. I mean, I don’t want to go there and get slaughtered, but some of the teams we take on are close rivals with Carmel. Though it’s never been about winning, per say, I want the kids to live up to their titles and do well.”