“We are going to World Championships” exclaimed teammates from the Gulf Coast Odyssey of the Mind’s 2018 Problem 5 Division II team. Hard work and problem solving skills paid off last month for the New Port Richey Middle School students, who were representing Gulf Coast in the Odyssey of the Mind Team at Florida State finals. The six-member all start team from Seven Springs, Paul R Smith and River Ridge placed first in their division out of the best 22 teams from all over Florida. This all girl team is on its way to World Championships in Iowa in a few weeks! Backed by their school principals and volunteer coaches, this team will compete against other best-of-the-best teams from around the globe.
The team and supporters are collecting donations to help cover costs for the travel, shipping the props, room and board needed to participate at the World Championship level in Iowa. Supporters have set up a go fund me page https://www.gofundme.com/send-all-girl-odyssey-team-2-worlds as well as holding other fundraisers. Visit our Facebook page to learn more about Odyssey of the Mind and to follow our team. https://www.facebook.com/fanssmsom/ #odysseyallgirlteam @Odysseyallgirl
Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition involving students from Kindergarten through college, providing teams of five to seven students with the opportunity to learn creative problem solving, teamwork, brainstorming, self-reliance, and respect for individual strengths. These students developed their storyline involving Space Treasure, Feminism and Equality for all. Their Stellar Hangout is set in the year 1989 and the search for treasure hilariously ensues. The entire problem was developed and executed without adult assistance. “We went down the rabbit hole and immersed ourselves in everything that happened in the 1980’s” Sophia said about the teams skit.
“Competition was very tough this year and we are excited that we won the state tournament.” Said team members Nicole, Ainsley and Anna. “This team is very creative, and really works great together.” exclaimed Erika. “We are excited to compete at the World level again” said Krisha, referring to the fact the team was good enough to win in Regional, States & Worlds last year and got 6th place. The team was ceremoniously congratulated for the high placement at the awards ceremony. This girl power team has higher hopes on First place this year. Supporters know they can do it –with your help.