The results are in! After two exciting Semi-Final contests, the top-scoring teams have emerged, and the stage is set for the Delco Hi-Q Championship. Marple Newtown High School, already securing a bye with the highest regular-season score, will be joined by Delaware County Christian School (DCCS) and Strath Haven High School in the highly anticipated 77th Annual Delco Hi-Q Championship.
The first Semi-Final contest took place on February 25th, where Strath Haven faced off against Radnor and Penncrest High Schools. Despite a strong early lead by Radnor, Strath Haven capitalized on the Team Choice and Team Choice Toss Up rounds, pushing them ahead by 10 points and ultimately securing the win. Final Scores – Strath Haven: 44; Radnor: 32, Penncrest: 21
Two days later, on February 27th, Delaware County Christian School (DCCS) showed their true Hi-Q hosting spirit with a packed auditorium and an enthusiastic crowd, competing with visiting teams Garnet Valley and Upper Darby High Schools. DCCS quickly claimed an early lead and never looked back, winning the contest by 14 points. Final Scores – DCCS: 50; Garnet Valley: 36; Upper Darby: 29
The Delco Hi-Q Championship will take place on Wednesday, March 10th, in the Performing Arts Center at Marple Newtown High School, beginning at 9:15 AM. The Championship is expected to be a highly competitive contest, bringing together the defending champions, Delaware County Christian School, and two teams—Marple Newtown and Strath Haven—who have long coveted the Donna Zerby trophy.
Throughout the history of Delco Hi-Q, Marple Newtown High School has earned 5 championship titles and made a strong return to the Championship in 2022. Led by Mrs. Liz Landes, who has coached the team since 2009, Marple Newtown’s rich history and consistent success make them a formidable contender.
The defending champions, Delaware County Christian School, are looking to secure their third championship title. With an unbroken streak of three consecutive Championship appearances, the team is led by Mr. Thom Houghton, who has coached for over 20 years, and Mr. Chip Ridewood, a new addition this season but a past Hi-Q participant. Their fourth consecutive Championship appearance is a testament to their consistent excellence in the competition.
Strath Haven High School returns to the Championship for the first time since 2014. They showed a particularly stellar performance this season – winning all of their contests and scoring the season high score of 62. Under the leadership of Coach Bill Rothenbach, a tenured educator and coach for over 20 years, Strath Haven is eager to claim another Hi-Q title.
The Championship promises to be an exciting contest, with three top-tier teams vying for the prestigious Donna Zerby Trophy. Along with the title and trophy, FMFCU donates cash prizes to the top teams – $3,000 for first, $2,500 for second and $2,000 for third place.
The community is invited to join the action and support these talented student teams as they compete for the honor and pride of their schools.
About Delco Hi-Q
Delco Hi-Q is the oldest, continuous academic quiz competition in the United States, bringing together Delaware County high schools to compete in a series of intellectual challenges. The competition encourages academic excellence, teamwork, and community pride through exciting and dynamic contests.
Delco Hi-Q is a partnership between Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) and FMFCU Foundation. FMFCU Vice President Rick Durante serves as Executive Director and Quizmaster,
FMFCU Assistant Vice President Danielle Griffin as Hi-Q Assistant Director, and DCIU’s Dave Bramble as the production engineer. In addition to support from participating schools, Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union and the Wilbur C. and Betty Lea Henderson Foundation are the primary corporate sponsors. Additional support comes from longtime sponsors Kimberly-Clark Corporation and the Delaware County Daily Times.
