The Sterling High School Scholars Bowl team took second place at the regional tournament in Sublette last Thursday, which qualifies them for the 2A state meet in Moundridge on Feb. 10.
At regionals, the Blackbears were first in their pool in preliminaries, winning rounds against Sublette, Stanton County, Plainville, and Medicine Lodge. Their only loss was to Hill City in a close game decided by a tie-breaker.
After advancing to finals, Sterling defeated Oakley, Hoxie, and Ellinwood and lost to Sublette and tournament champions Thomas More Prep of Hays. The top three teams from the regional meet advance to the state tournament: 1st TMP, 2nd Sterling, 3rd Ellinwood.
Top scorers for Sterling include Mason Lockhart with 200 points, Kevin Ploutz with 100 points, and Lanae Welty with 90 points.
State tournament competition begins at noon on Feb. 10 at Moundridge High School. Spectators are allowed and there is no admission charge.
Below (from left): Fallon Brown, Lanae Welty, Mason Lockhart, Kevin Ploutz and Lindsey Beltz complete their final practice of the season Wednesday morning. The team has qualified to compete in the 2A State Scholars Bowl Tournament in Moundridge on Saturday.
