The Berkeley Springs High School Academic Showdown team participated in the West Virginia Regional Competition Saturday, February 21, at Shepherd University, competing against Washington High School,. Jefferson High School, Hampshire High School, Frankfort High School and Spring Mills High School. This was the first competition of the year and the first under new coach, Joseph Giles.
The team started off strong, securing a win against Washington High that gave them top bracket and a ticket straight to Round 5. A tough loss to newcomers Jefferson High put Berkeley Springs High School in an elimination bracket against Spring Mills High. In that match, Spring Mills won at the last second, 16-15. Jefferson would go on to win the regional competition, with Spring Mills as the runner up, and Berkeley Springs placing third.
“This team placed third out of six teams and very nearly made it into the final round. With only two returning players, I think we did outstanding. Camden Spade, our Senior Captain, led his team well. With Camden and Alaina graduating, we’re going to have to rebuild the team starting with Oliver and Reese. We may not be going to Charleston this year, but the future is bright,” said Giles.