Academic team wrapped up their 2023-24 season, finishing the season with one of the best records in the Catholic League and walking away with a regional title.
The Marist academic team, lead by Coach Nicholson and five starting students: Andrew Viz, David Fanneli, Jimmy Alfano, Hannah Bayorgean, and Jack Newark, as well as a talented squad of bench players, ended their year with an impressive 16-5 regular season record, plus three playoff victories to go on top of it.
This high level of performance would lead the team towards a regional championship. They had their eyes set on state, however they ultimately ended up falling just short against Homewood-Flossmoor in Sectional title game. Regardless, it was still a great season placing Marist second in the final sectional rankings.
“We played 3 games prior to qualify [for sectionals] and won all three. Sadly we didn’t continue our streak and took second overall,” said Jax Valenti, member of the Marist Academic team. “At academic team everyone has a blast competing together and testing our knowledge. In my opinion it’s truly one of the most enjoyable clubs Marist has to offer.”
Academic team participates in contests focused on trivia knowledge where teams score points by answering questions correctly and quickly as the other team races to do the same. Practicing multiple times per week with head coach Mr. Nicholson, Marist didn’t go out without a fight. Nicholson is described as charismatic, a tough competitor, and most importantly a great coach by his students.
“Mr Nicholson is a great coach to say the least. He’s a fun loving guy, always willing to crack a joke. However he has a competitive side and enjoys winning, helping us to be our best as we compete,” said Andy Viz, a starter on the academic team.
As the off season begins, hopes run high in the program that they can repeat in regionals and continue to bring success to Marist as the next generation of academic team stars lead them forward. While this season wasn’t the outcome they may have wanted, it was still a season to remember.
