Ocean Science Nets First Place at Sponge Bowl, Preps for Nationals

Friday’s class period is dedicated to competition practice. *Photo: Serena Li*

By TAIMOOR BHATTI, BASIT QURESHI, and DILAN BELOW

The Ocean Science team achieved a remarkable victory on February 9, clinching first place in the prestigious Sponge Bowl competition. Under the mentorship of Ms. Kimberly Lau, the team showcased their hard work and dedication in an exciting display of knowledge.

The Sponge Bowl, a part of the National Ocean Science Bowl, co-sponsored by NASA, is a virtual regional competition that tests students’ knowledge of the marine sciences, biology, chemistry, physics, and geology. As the February 9 competition unfolded, Midwood's team dazzled with their comprehensive knowledge, quick thinking, and collaborative spirit.

"We are so, so proud of our students,” Ms. Lau said. “Seeing all of their hard work and dedication pay off was a highlight this year."

"They stayed confident, and I was so impressed that they didn’t show fatigue over the eight hours of competition,” she added. “It made me so happy to see them keeping each other pumped up and positive. They have grown so close over the years. I love that they are like a family to each other.”

The team has an impressive record in competitions. They won first place in New York in 2024, and first in New York and sixth nationally in 2022. With their win this year, they’ve secured a spot at nationals on May 17 and 18.

"We are looking forward to competing on the national stage this year," said senior Christian Gableman. "It’s a huge opportunity for us."

The season is still far from over. The team competed again in the Science Bowl on March 1 and will also enter the NYC Envirothon competition on April 25. "This has been an exciting year, and we’re ready for more," said Gableman.

Ms. Lau noted that practice has been rigorous as usual, with regular after-school sessions and additional student-run practices in the evenings and weekends leading up to tournaments.

Behind the scenes, the team shares a strong bond.

"They get so excited during practices that when they jump up off their seats to cheer, two have done it with so much energy that they fell backward," Ms. Lau said. "They’re really a great set of kids."

"I’m looking forward to facing all the different teams we might encounter during nationals," said senior Wayne Chen. "With just a glimpse of how the best teams played in our competition, I want to match against more teams at our level or even better."

"Being part of this team has been an amazing experience," he added. "It's not just about winning—it’s about learning, growing, and inspiring others to appreciate the importance of marine science."

The team is part of a class that is integrated into students’ schedules. Monday through Thursday consists of lessons in marine biology or physical science, and Fridays are dedicated to practice for competitions.

“It’s very fast-paced,” said Ms. Lau. “The study material comes from three college-level textbooks each semester.”

This high level of academic rigor makes the class a unique offering for students capable of managing its intensity.

“Ocean science is really funny because at times I'm very good and then I get humbled,” said senior Jackson Scott-Liub. “I’ve definitely gotten much better, but there’s still a lot to learn.”

One reason for the team’s high standing is Ms. Lau’s success training younger students. “The biggest push is to start them as early as possible because there is so much to learn,” said Ms. Lau. “Whatever we miss from the previous year, we come back to.”

Most team members have been in the class since their freshman or sophomore years.

“The community is what has made the Ocean Science Team worth the four-year commitment for me,” said Captain Wan Yin Wu ‘25. “My experience with the team has been enlightening and fun, not just because I continue to learn more about the oceans, but also because I get to work with hardworking and bright students.”

Erisa Mani ‘27 was chosen to be a future captain by Ms. Lau after being on the team for only one semester. “I look up to the seniors in this class to help guide me,” said Mani. “To imagine myself being able to do that for the upcoming freshmen and sophomores is such a wholesome and pure feeling.”

“Ms. Lau’s mentorship in training me for the captain role has been invaluable,” said Maya Itskovich, a junior also being trained for the position. “She’s helped me refine my ability to think quickly under pressure, strategize during competitions, and support my teammates effectively.”

Competitions feature fast-paced buzzer rounds with questions ranging from marine biology to pop culture facts about shows like SpongeBob SquarePants—a surprising source of real marine science.

The format includes "toss-up" questions, which are multiple-choice and awarded to the first student to buzz in. If the toss-up question is answered correctly, the team has an opportunity to earn bonus points by answering a follow-up question, which they can discuss before providing an answer.

This year, the team has seen an increase in interest, with 33 students currently enrolled, and while the class is screened and doesn’t take all applicants, the growing interest is seen as a positive sign.

Looking towards the future, the team remains committed to furthering their exploration of the ocean's mysteries and promoting environmental stewardship within their community. As they bask in the glow of their well-earned victory, the students of the Ocean Science Team stand tall, ready to embark on even greater scientific adventures, fueled by their shared passion for the sea and the boundless possibilities it holds.