The Murray State College Academic Team traveled to Chicago, Illinois, to compete in the Community College Championship Tournament (CCCT), earning impressive finishes across all three competing teams.

Murray State’s A-Team finished second with a record of 10-2, while the B-Team finished fourth with an 8-3 record and the C-Team finished seventh with a record of 5-6.  

Quiz bowl is a competitive, academic, interscholastic activity in which teams of four students answer questions on a wide range of subjects, including current events, geography, history, literature, math, mythology, popular culture, science, social science and sports.

“Watching these students push themselves, support one another and rise to the challenge has been an incredible experience,” said Tracey Hickman, Murray State College Academic Team Coach. “Their passion for learning and competitive spirit makes all the long hours of practice worth it. They’ve proven they belong among the best, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

Individually, A-Team Captain Kanyon Beck placed fifth overall and C-Team’s William Day finished ninth. Beck, along with Rae Prince and William Day, earn spots on the All-Star Tournament Team.

Murray State’s A-Team members included Captain Kanyon Beck, Colton Criner, Natalie Gehring and Grant Matchen.  Captain Rae Prince led the B-Team, which included Sam Beshear, Brooklyn Pritchard and Camrun Scott. Captain Dalton Elmer, Dakota Buford, William Day, Dillon Simpson and Kenneth Welch led the C-Team. 

The tournament matches blend individual competition with team collaboration, reinforcing classroom lessons while encouraging students to develop broader intellectual interests.

With their performance, Murray State College's A-Team, will return to Chicago to compete at the Intercollegiate Championship Tournament in April. They will compete against 60 four-year colleges and universities for the national title.  

“These students have demonstrated remarkable dedication, teamwork and intellectual curiosity,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, Murray State College President. “Their success showcases the excellence of our academic programs and the commitment of our faculty in supporting student achievement.”