Columbia Adventist Academy has had an active Knowledge Bowl team for nearly twenty years, and for the sixth consecutive year the varsity team walked away at the end of the season with first place in its league’s regional competition. That feels good to its members, who have practiced many hours to have the quick reflexes and body of knowledge necessary for such consistent results. What also feels good was expressed by varsity member Staci Kingery: “We get to go to other schools and witness.”
No, she isn’t suggesting that team members give Bible studies, but through good sportsmanship, friendliness and excellence, Columbia’s students are recognized for all the right reasons.
Columbia has consistently had one or more teams place high enough to compete at the regional level. Columbia’s Varsity 1 team not only walked away this year as Columbia Gorge League varsity champions against much larger schools, but also carried home first place at the regionals with the Division IV high score during that meet.
Each of the past six winning years, an invitation to compete on Saturday at the state competition has been extended to the team. Columbia students graciously shake the hands of the second-place team as they decline to play on Sabbath.
Other coaches marvel that Columbia consistently outscores much larger schools. Those who know why Columbia does not compete at the state competition also know that Columbia students walk away with much more than knowledge. They make choices based on their convictions. And they have fun!
Geoff Cannard, AJ Ferguson, Justin Evans (in the tree), Staci Kingery and Jeff Johnson, are members of the Columbia Adventist Academy Knowledge Bowl varsity team.
Staci Kingery, AJ Ferguson, Justin Evans, Jeff Johnson and Geoff Cannard
