The Alcona High School Knowledge Bowl Team kicked off its season with an impressive performance, earning two victories in its opening matches. Competing in Division 1, the Tigers faced Whittemore-Prescott and Hale in a doubleheader, showcasing their teamwork, quick thinking, and academic knowledge.
Knowledge Bowl is a team competition similar to the television game show Jeopardy!, challenging students to answer questions across a wide range of academic topics. Each match consists of three rounds: an opening toss-up round, a second round featuring a toss-up question followed by four bonus questions for the team that answers correctly, and a final toss-up round.
Sponsored by WBKB-TV and Alpena Community College, Knowledge Bowl challenges students to apply their trivia knowledge across a variety of academic subjects while building the critical thinking and teamwork skills that support success in higher education.
This year's Alcona team consists of five players: Brandon Stanley, Captain (12th), Ryan Weeks (12th), Michael Brege (10th), Aiden Geddert (10th), Skyler Bratcher (10th), and coach Helen-Ann Cordes
Alcona Knowledge Bowl Team members competing against Whittemore-Prescott in the WBKB-TV studio, with Knowledge Bowl Moderator, Dr. Karol Walchak, Alpena Community College Professor Emerita.
In the opening match against Whittemore, Alcona secured a decisive 185-40 victory. The Tigers followed with a 200-140 win over Hale in a competitive match that kept both teams on their toes.
The match against Hale was a hard-fought battle, with the Tigers and Eagles going head-to-head throughout all three rounds in a closely contested competition. Hale led 70-30 after the first round, but Alcona rallied in the second round to take a 110-90 lead. The Tigers continued their strong performance through the final round to secure the victory.
“I'm really proud of how our team performed in our first matches of the season. We worked together, stayed focused and never gave up. We're excited to build on this strong start and continue working toward a successful season.” said Brandon Stanley, team captain.
Alcona competes in Division 1 alongside Au Gres, Hale, Rogers City, Standish and Whittemore. Division 2 includes Tawas, Mio, Atlanta, Ogemaw, Alpena and Onaway. At the end of the season, the Division 1 and Division 2 champions will compete for the overall Knowledge Bowl title.
The Tigers have a proud history in the competition, earning their first championship in 1987 before capturing back-to-back titles in the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Last year, Alcona finished second overall. With two victories already under their belt, the team is off to a strong start for the 2027 season.