Academic Team

Head Coach: Mr. Josh Anderson, Room 1121
Asst. Coach: Ms. Kara Riley, Room 1405     

The Academic Team, a.k.a. Scholastic Bowl, is a competitive VHSL team. The purpose is to stimulate interest and recognize student achievement in the academic program, which is the foundation of a school’s mission. Competitions are based on students' knowledge of English, mathematics, science, social studies, and miscellany (which includes fine arts, current events, entertainment/sports, and religion/mythology/philosophy).

Debate Team

Sponsor: Coming Soon!
Room: TBA

The debate team competes in a local league, the VHSL, and the National Speech and Debate League. There are five competitive events that are taught in a debate class offered each year. Students in grades 10-12 are eligible to take the class. Most students take the elective all three years in order to master the skills necessary to excel. Contact Mr. Newcome for more information!

eSports Team

Sponsor: Mr. Scott Braithwaite
Location: EGSIC

The VHSL has partnered with PlayVS, the official high school esports platform and partner of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).  All games offered are either rated “T for Teen” (13 years or older) or “E for Everyone” (games for all ages).  Games currently offered by PlayVS are League of Legends, Smite, and Rocket League.  There are two seasons each school year; Fall – October to January and Spring – February to May. The team holds tryouts, and the top 6 are eligible to compete. 

Forensics Team

Sponsor: Ms. Val O'Keeffe
Location: Room 0101

Forensics acquaints students with advanced interpretive and persuasive speaking skills. (Unlike the scientific field of the same name, it has very little to do with dead bodies.) Students compete in a variety of areas, including humorous and serious interpretations of literature. Forensics helps students develop confidence and critical thinking not only during competitions but also in daily interactions with others. We compete in the local league, the state league, and the national league. Contact Mrs. O'Keeffe for more information!

Robotics Team

Sponsor: Coming soon!

Location: TBA

Through its uniquely engaging combination of teamwork, problem-solving, and scientific discovery, Handley Robotics encompasses the principles of STEM. Our team participates in the yearly VEX game challenge which involves designing a robot to accomplish the objectives of the game and competing in various tournaments throughout the season. Robotics promotes students honing life-long skills that build problem-solving leaders. Contact Mrs. Crawford for meeting information!