The quiz bowl extended its Genesee Academic League record to 8-1, going 3-0 in matches against Clio, Linden, and Lapeer Wednesday, Nov. 13.

Senior Connor Earegood, captain, is proud of how the Hornets have played this season.

“The core group of seniors started off our quiz bowl careers as an all-freshman team and got thrashed in every match,” Earegood said. “To see how far we’ve come is incredible and speaks to how hard the team has worked.”

The Hornets played an easy tune-up match against Clio, winning 280-50.

Both teams struggled to earn points in the lightning round with only three correct answers combined.

Winning 280-130 against rival Linden, the Hornets exorcised an old demon by dominating the only team to beat them.

Lapeer proved an easy victory for the Hornets, who won 390-100.

The team sits atop the Genesee Academic League Division 2 standings. The Hornets have a match at hand against every opponent.

With a chance to clinch a division title, the Hornets will face Powers Catholic, Hartland, and Goodrich in their next meet Wednesday, Nov. 20.

Earegood hopes the Hornets can continue their domination.

“Powers is a good team and Hartland upset them at the last meet,” Earegood said. “Schmidty (Coach Chris Schmidt) has prepared us all season to be in this situation. I know we have the knowledge and speed. Now it’s time to put our money where our mouth is.”

If the Hornets win their remaining matches, they will earn a berth into the Genesee Academic League final and a subsequent bid in the Michigan quiz bowl state championship.

Because this year’s state championship may not occur due to budget and logistical issues, the remaining matches hold added significance for the Hornets.

“We don’t know whether the state meet will happen or not so we’re competing like dogs to win our matches,” Earegood said. “Four of our players are seniors and our coach may be moving on from the team next season, so we’re in a win now mode.

“We’ve been on the outside looking in for too long and this year is our time to shine. Teams will remember Kearsley quiz bowl when we play them.”