Red Jacket MasterMinds Team Closes Out Strong 2026 Season

The Red Jacket Cardinals MasterMinds teams wrapped up their 2026 season with a home meet on April 7, concluding another successful year of competitive academic play. Both the Varsity and Junior Varsity teams demonstrated strong knowledge, teamwork, and quick thinking throughout the season.

This year’s senior class finished their careers on a high note. Grace Maslyn, a four-year MasterMinds competitor, and Wyatt Clapp, who joined the team more recently and competed in his first and final matches this season, both contributed to two victories in their final meet. Their efforts helped cap off a memorable season for the program.

MasterMinds is an academic quiz bowl competition held across Upstate New York, with regional leagues in Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. The competition features teams of up to four students who face off by answering questions across a wide range of subjects, including literature, history, science, the arts, philosophy, social sciences, geography, current events, and popular culture.

Matches are fast-paced and require both individual knowledge and strong team collaboration. Each team designates a captain, who plays a key role in bonus rounds and helps guide team responses. Students are also able to use scratch paper for problem-solving during certain questions, particularly in math.

Team members demonstrate a strong commitment to the program, spending time each week practicing together and preparing for competition. Advisor Richard Rappold emphasized the value of the initiative, stating, “The MasterMinds program is a great opportunity for students who don't participate in athletics to represent their school in a competitive and inclusive environment beyond the halls of Red Jacket.”

The program also creates opportunities for students across grades 9–12 to connect, allowing upperclassmen to mentor and build relationships with younger students who share similar interests. The Red Jacket MasterMinds program continues to challenge students academically while building confidence, communication skills, and teamwork. Congratulations to all of this year’s participants on a successful season.