Olympian High School

Clutching victory from the jaws of defeat, Olympian High School’s quizbowl team, the Eagles, etched their names into school history at the 2024 HSNCT. Olympian High School, established in 2006, wasn’t always a quizbowl powerhouse. The school, nestled in the Otay Ranch area of Chula Vista, opened its doors with a capacity for 2,500 students. Its proximity to the Olympic Training Center inspired the name, though the USOC initially resisted. After negotiations, the district briefly adopted “Olympic Vista High School” before finally securing “Olympian High School.” In 2011, the quizbowl team took flight under coach Ken Boulton. Early years were spent honing skills in the local Sweetwater Union Academic League. Olympian High School consistently dominated the Metro Conference Academic League, claiming victory year after year. Gradually, they ventured into the SoCal circuit, facing tough competition at tournaments like Capstone Invitational and Arcadia’s Xanthic Only Live Once. The 2014-2015 season marked a turning point, with the Eagles securing their first tournament win alongside BASIS Scottsdale A. Olympian High School then made their HSNCT debut, a respectable showing that hinted at future glory. The team’s performance peaked in the 2017-2018 season, consistently placing in the top four at tournaments. At the 2018 HSNCT, they achieved their then-highest ranking of 51st. A period of rebuilding followed, with fluctuating results and a missed HSNCT in 2019. The team faced setbacks, even losing in the Metro Conference Academic League for the first time in 2020. Yet, strong players like Henry Morales emerged, dominating science against national contenders. The arrival of Martin Auriel Costa and Dylan Rafael Yamzon ushered in a new era of success. Olympian High School quickly regained its top-tier status, upsetting established teams and earning recognition as the “fastest-improving team in SoCal.” In the 2023 Southern California State Championship, they tied for 4th. Then came 2024. The Eagles soared to new heights. Victories against nationally ranked teams like Del Norte and Canyon Crest Academy cemented their dominance. At the 2024 HSNCT, they tied for the best prelim record in SoCal (8-2), overcoming powerhouses like Montgomery Blair and Winston Churchill A. Despite an early playoff exit, Olympian High School achieved its highest-ever ranking, tied for 49th out of 320 teams. Their legacy was secured.