Quizbowl is a competition of wit, memorization, math skills, and general knowledge. For coaches and players alike, it is a great way to interact with one another and display knowledge in an unconventional way.

“I like to spend time with kids outside the classroom setting,” said PHS quizbowl coach Paula Desauza. “Adolescents are fun and funny.”

The 2017 season ended on February 27, with the varsity A team finishing fourth in the league, and qualifying for state.

Plainwell has participated in the Allegan County Quizbowl League for many years and have never won a league championship. A Plainwell team has only placed higher than fourth twice, in the 2006 and 2007 seasons when it placed third. The Plainwell A team is satisfied with the season.

“I was very happy with the teams.  We performed better this year at both the JV and Varsity level than we had in the past two years,” said DeSouza.

The state championship is held at Michigan state university on April 21 through 22, and features the best teams from across the state competing.

With so many teams, DeSouza is doubtful the team can win, but thinks they will do well.

“I think they will do their best. We are a good team; we are not a great team,” said Desouza.

The team will prepare for the competition by doing what they usually do: studying and absorbing as much information as possible.

“They are going to go to school everyday and get smarter.  Practices are not generally well attended by seniors,” said DeSouza.