NOVINGER, Mo. — Bevier’s scholar bowl team left little doubt this season.
The Wildcats went 4-0 Saturday, April 11, in Novinger, closing it out with a 380-150 win over La Plata in the championship of a double-elimination tournament. That run followed an 8-0 mark in March triad play, securing the Tri-County (North) Conference title.
Senior Stefan Bilinski set the pace, averaging 140 points per game Saturday and earning all-tournament honors.
He pointed to the work behind it — long practices, steady prep, and a season spent widening their range, from core subjects to fine arts.
Bilinski was joined by Josie Birdsong, Eli Brower, Emmalyn Pantaleo, Eyan Pantaleo, Max Souther and Jet Walker. The team is coached by Brian Toll.
Bevier saw strong competition throughout the season. One of the sharper moments came in February at Schuyler County, where the Wildcats handed Marceline its only loss of the day.
Now the focus shifts to Saturday. Bevier will host the Class One, District Four tournament, with North Shelby and Cairo among the field. The winner moves on to an April 28 quarterfinal against the District Three champion, a bracket that includes defending state champion Weaubleau.