Thayer Academy To Appear On WGBH's 'High School Quiz Show'

BOSTON, MA — After competing hard in November's qualifier, Thayer Academy is set to square off against Seekonk High School in the first round of WGBH's 10th Annual "High School Quiz Show."

Support some of Thayer's brightest as they test their knowledge and quick wit in a televised rapid fire format. The teams will answer questions in categories including math, science, pop culture and history. The competition airs at 6 p.m., tomorrow on WGBH.

With the help of coach Jamison Smith, the team spent much of the school year working hard and preparing for the limelight. Much of this team has at least a year of experience, competing on the "High School Quiz Show," They said the nerves of competing on television and seeing yourself on a studio monitor was intimidating. For many though, nerves were less of an issue this time around.

"I think last year I was a little too nervous and was too self-conscious about getting something wrong, so I didn't answer as many questions as I should have," junior Garner Thompson admitted. "So this year, I'm going to be more aggressive."

Others like sophomore Anna Bagley was on the team last year,but had some nerves. However, she was mostly ready to go and excited for the opportunity.

"Now I realize how cool this is and how big of an opportunity this is, so it's nice to really appreciate it this year," Bagley said.

Thayer's team, who made it to the quarterfinals last year, are confident the group has the ability to go farther. Every team member had a favorite trivia subject, and are genuinely excited to contribute. Thompson said his favorite subjects are geography and history, while Austin Bennett hopes to contribute with mathematics. Smith said his team took it upon themselves to identify the subjects they are strong in and have really come together as a team.

"I've seen them over the last couple years take ownership, Smith said about his team. "We get together and practice, but most importantly, it's a lot of fun to hang out with these kids for an hour a week and do trivia."