For the first time in school history, the Memorial High School Academic Decathlon team competed at the State Meet, making an impressive debut and earning individual medals along the way. The competition took place in Corpus Christi from February 27-28, where students showcased their academic knowledge, preparation, and determination among the top teams in Texas. 

Led by Academic Decathlon Coach Cathryn Wright, the team improved its score from the Regional competition and celebrated several individual accomplishments. In the Varsity division, Kody Apolinar placed 2nd in Science. In the Scholastic division, Sloane Sadler placed 2nd in Interview, and in the Honors division, Alexis Shores placed 3rd in Interview. 

With many members of the team being freshmen and sophomores, their success at the State level highlights both their potential and commitment to the rigorous academic competition. 

“Seeing these freshmen and sophomores excel on the State level has shown their undaunted spirit and determination to take on challenges and put in the work to compete at a high level of pressure and competition and refuse to be intimidated,” said Wright. 

In preparation for the State Meet, students dedicated significant time to studying and practicing for the ten-event competition. 

“Students were rehearsing speeches, re-reading study material, practicing flash cards, and taking practice tests,” said Wright. 

Academic Decathlon challenges students in a variety of subjects, allowing them to discover strengths they may not have realized before. Wright encourages students who may be curious about joining the team next year to step out and give it a try. 

“Give it a try! You never know what you might be good at! Students compete in all ten events, and, sometimes, they're surprised at what they show an aptitude for,” said Wright. 

The State competition is known for its demanding schedule and intense academic expectations, but the Memorial team embraced the challenge and proved they belonged among the state’s best. 

“The competition itself is grueling: the travel, the pressure, the content, and the unrelenting nature of the event. This team treated it as a proving ground, and they proved they belong at state, and they have every intention of returning,” Wright said. 

As the program continues to grow, this year’s team set a strong example for future competitors and showed that Memorial High School’s Academic Decathlon students can compete with the best in the state.  

Way to represent, Panthers!