NOV 16–members of Beverly’s Academic Decathlon class completed their first scrimmage. It consisted of seven objective tests on math, science, literature, social science, art, music and economics. 

All tests were centered around this year’s theme, the Roaring Twenties, allowing students to learn more about the glamorous and excessive times that occurred a century ago.

“My favorite AcaDeca guide was definitely literature. The Great Gatsby was an interesting book that reflected the Jazz Age and shined light on the innovations at the time,” sophomore Nathan Chung said. 

The results from the scrimmage would determine who would make it on the official team, which would be the team representing Beverly at regionals and other future tournaments.

Beverly’s Academic Decathlon team has made it to state every year since 2021 with Coach and History Teacher Ann-Marie Fine. 

Fine said, “This decade holds so much cultural change from all the different art movements, such as art deco, to the explosion of sports and the rise of consumerism.” 

Decathletes had the chance to explore all these topics in preparation for the scrimmage. Although the Academic Decathlon class might seem like a whirlwind of studying and practicing, there are plenty of moments of fun and laughter in between. 

Co-Captain junior Lea Levy said, “Scrimmage days have a special environment where everyone is laughing and eating snacks one minute, but focused on a test the next.” 

Levy made it to state last year after Beverly’s team ranked 5th overall at regionals.

Co-Captain, junior Daria Serheyeva, said, “This scrimmage was more fun than usual! We had a good balance of fun and stress from testing.” 

After this scrimmage, the team will compete in January to determine scores for the regional competition and placement for the official team. 

In the meantime, Decathletes are preparing through activities like jeopardies. In addition, they are also practicing the subjectives, which include essays, interviews and speeches. 

When prompted about whether practicing and studying for ten different objectives and subjects was difficult, Co-Captain junior Chloe Lau said it was difficult but “… rewarding because we get to see the results of our hard work and also receive medals as well.”

Overall, the first scrimmage for the Academic Decathlon team was a success as Decathletes prepare for regionals!