U-High’s varsity Science Olympiad team earned first at the Crystal Lake Central Science Olympiad Invitational at Crystal Lake Central High School on Jan. 24, while the junior varsity team placed 11th. 

Leading up to the competition, the team faced challenges with delayed materials, particularly for build events, according to Emilia Anitescu, a team captain. 

“A lot of materials weren’t coming in on time,” Emilia said. “People were stressed out.” 

When a kit for the JV team failed to arrive, members improvised using supplies from previous years. 

“They were able to really quickly adjust,” she said. “They did it all in one day, which I was pretty proud of them.” 

The varsity team also encountered obstacles, including rule changes and electronic malfunctions caused by cold weather. 

Emilia credited the team’s dedication this season, noting that members seem more driven to improve than in previous years. 

Though Emilia says the team is doing a great job, in the coming weeks, the team plans to hold mock competitions between regional and state to stay competitive for the rest of the season.