Junior Rhett Metscher jumped into Weatherford High School’s academic team with family momentum fueling his decision from day one. “I became involved in academic team as soon as I got to high school,” he said. “I joined because I had a legacy of being a part of the team in middle school, so I wanted to be a part of the high school team.”
History questions light him up during matches. “I am most confident in the history part of academic team,” Metscher said. “This is because I have a passion for that subject of school and find it most interesting.”
Metscher fills a key role on the squad. “My part in the team is the history person because I specialize in that,” he said. “I am usually in for most of the rounds, but sometimes I’m out to let others who specialize in other roles thrive.”
Split-second choices test him most. “The biggest challenge for me is being able to make those split second to either buzz in or let others take the chance,” Metscher said. “Most of the time it’s being able to know if you are sure with a question because you don’t want to waste the chance for potential points. Your answer could give it away for those in the opposing team. It’s most difficult to game that decision to buzz in or stay out.”
Teamwork decides close contests. “Communication is a vital part of academic team,” he said. “Especially in the bonus rounds, because we need to communicate to get point in the fast-paced bonus rounds. Which requires us to communicate to our team leader to try and get as many points as possible during the bonus rounds.”
The mental training pays off in class. “It has helped me to know facts that I ordinarily wouldn’t know,” he said. “This helps me to connect things faster than others and learn faster.” He welcomes newcomers. “I would say that it is a really fun activity an I would definitely recommend it to anyone willing to learn a little extra than normal,” Metscher said. “It is definitely fun to be with teammates and have the opportunity to compete together.”
Next season brings new targets. “Since our season is over my goals are to try and learn more for next season,” he said. “Then to apply it and try to get further next year.” His plate stays full. “I am also a part of our band, anatomage team, choir, key club, student council, leadership lab, and aviation.”
