Hi-Q team takes title in dramatic fashion
By ADAM STEWART Staff Reporter
The Hi-Q team from Stanwood High School (SHS) tossed a monkey off its back after winning the championship match on home turf last week.
For the second year in a row, SHS qualified as host for the regional event, sponsored by Everett Community College, by besting 17 teams from Snohomish and Island counties during regular season competition.
Last year’s loss scampered away Tuesday as hometown cheers filled the performing arts center in a final-question victory.
Senior Alec Parker’s quick arithmetic sprung SHS into first place over Monroe.
“Alec answered the question in 12 seconds,” said Kathy Redfern, Hi-Q advisor. “The kids were very excited.”
Coming from behind, SHS gathered momentum to win with 41 points, edging out Monroe (31) and Arlington (26).
Quick thinking by Parker was only one piece of the successful puzzle. Four fellow seniors fired a flurry of synopses during intense questioning in 14 subjects from current events to biology.
Not only are these students smart, said Redfern, they also demonstrate tremendous understanding and recall.
“They’ve worked hard all season,” she added.
In the five years Redfern has worked with the Hi-Q team, this was the first year squad members guided practice sessions. The experienced team of Rebecca Raible, Derek Britian, Kyle Blackburn, Jimmy Besancon, Tyler Miller, Teague Nelson, Max Osnes and Parker held additional meetings to prepare and study.
“The match was impressive to watch,” said Redfern. “To win the championship as host is tremendous.”
