GRC Academic Team with their District trophy.

After a great season, Academic Team captain Ben Gillespie has advanced to the State Competition for a second year. 

The competition will take place this weekend in Louisville and Ben has worked very hard to get here. 

“It’s mostly about managing your time,” Ben said. “There are a lot of questions and you kind of have to pick and choose which ones you want to spend the most time on.” 

The Academic Team is a tight-knit group and they have been very encouraging to each other this season.

Team Captain Ivy Ballard said they were some of the best people she’s met.

“We help each other not only in academics but in life too,” Ballard said. “We grow together and build friendships with new people.”

Long-time Academic Team coach Robyn Murphy said she’s never had a team like this one.

“I’ve never had a team before that has been so uplifting,” she said. “Sometimes ego can get in the way when you are competing against each other, but this year they have really bonded. It doesn’t matter if they are a freshman or a senior, they’ve all just connected.” 

Ben said this was his favorite part about the team. 

“Mrs. Murphy is a good coach. She taught me about resources for studying and all of my teammates have been really encouraging.”

He is looking forward to the State competition and has learned a lot from last year’s.

“It’s a cool environment just because it’s a lot bigger than the regional and district tests,” Gillespie said. “Last year, I was nervous because there were a lot of people there taking the exam. I wasn’t really prepared for it as much as I am now. I think I’ll know more about what to expect and I may be better at pacing myself.”

The team encourages more people to join them. 

“We are always needing new members. We are only as strong as the kids on our team,” Mrs. Murphy said.

“It’s a great way to meet new people and it’s really fun.” Ivy said. “You get to make bonds with people that will last.”