Northmont schools Academic Challenge Team makes history with 18 tournament wins

From left to right, Nathan Haley, Ave Rieger, Bridget Scranton, Ryan Fitzgerald, Russell Dillak, Ethan Kral, Adam Williams, Coach Jones. CONTRIBUTED

From left to right, Nathan Haley, Ave Rieger, Bridget Scranton, Ryan Fitzgerald, Russell Dillak, Ethan Kral, Adam Williams, Coach Jones. CONTRIBUTED

The Academic Challenge Team at Northmont City Schools achieved 18 tournament championships this year, the district announced this week, marking a historic milestone for the school and the state of Ohio.

The team’s accomplishments include winning the National Academic Quiz Tournaments (NAQT) State Championship, as well as qualifying for three national championship tournaments.

“This remarkable accomplishment highlights the team’s exceptional dedication, intellect, and competitive spirit,” the district wrote in a press release. “... The team is nationally ranked and demonstrated consistent excellence throughout the season.”

At the Individual Player National Championship, three Northmont players ranked among top players nationwide, with Adam Williams ranking 34th, Ethan Kral ranking 44th, and Ave Rieger ranking 54th.

The Academic Challenge Team has a current record of 200-21 for the year, the district’s press release notes, and the team’s B squad has also ranked as one of the highest-performing B squads nationally.

“The team’s accomplishments extend beyond victories, with six players ranking among the top 11 scorers in school history — a testament to their individual and collective contributions to Northmont’s academic legacy,” the release adds.

The team is lead by Coach David Jones, who himself has broken the record for most state championship wins by a coach in Ohio.

“We are immensely proud of our Academic Challenge Team and Coach Jones,” said Superintendent Tony Thomas. “They exemplify the best of Northmont’s commitment to academic rigor and grit.”

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