Collegiate’s Blue Crab Bowl Team Earns Fourth Place in Statewide Ocean Sciences Competition
Congratulations to our 2026 Blue Crab Bowl Team — Alexa B. '26, Christian F. '26, Charlotte H. '26, Sanaa C. '26, and Jeremie L. '27 — on an impressive fourth-place finish among 12 teams from across Virginia.
The 28th Annual Blue Crab Bowl, held Feb. 7, 2026, in Gloucester, is one of 25 regional competitions in the nationwide National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB). Hosted in person by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, the Blue Crab Bowl challenges students with rigorous questions about marine science and the world’s oceans.
Collegiate advanced to the trophy round after winning three of their first four matches under the guidance of the team's captain Alexa. Highlights included a decisive victory over 12-time champion and archrival Catholic High School, and a thrilling last-second win against perennial powerhouse Seton School. The team’s knowledge, quick thinking and collaboration were on full display throughout the competition.
"While this year’s team will graduate four seniors, the future of the program remains bright, with enthusiastic underclass students already preparing to continue Collegiate’s strong tradition in ocean sciences competition," said Dr. Frank Thompson, the team's advisor.
The Blue Crab Bowl stands apart from other academic contests for its unique blend of camaraderie, attention to detail and spirited competition — creating an environment that is both highly competitive and welcoming for students passionate about science.
This year’s event also carries special significance, as organizers have shared that the 2026 competition may be the final Blue Crab Bowl due to federal science-education funding cuts affecting the program nationwide. For decades, NOSB and regional competitions like the Blue Crab Bowl have provided transformative opportunities for students, with many participants earning scholarships and pursuing degrees and careers in ocean science and related STEM fields.
The Blue Crab Bowl is a program of the Center for Ocean Leadership (NSF NCAR & UCAR), NOSB aims to expand ocean science education, prepare students for STEM careers, and foster environmental stewardship through academic competition.
The Blue Crab Bowl is a program of the Center for Ocean Leadership (NSF NCAR & UCAR), NOSB aims to expand ocean science education, prepare students for STEM careers, and foster environmental stewardship through academic competition.
Collegiate is proud of the team’s outstanding performance and grateful for the meaningful experiences this program continues to provide for our students.
