MILWAUKEE, WI (OnFocus) – Marshfield High School has emerged victorious in the 2025 Lake Sturgeon Bowl, a regional competition of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB). Held on February 1 at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s School of Freshwater Sciences, the competition challenged students’ knowledge of ocean science through a rigorous series of buzzer-style multiple-choice questions and open-ended team challenges.
The Marshfield High team, comprised of Cade Dahl, Neel Gonugunta, Kai Rens, Ean Sautebin, and Prisha Varre, demonstrated exceptional expertise in ocean science disciplines, securing their place as regional champions. The team was coached by Paul Herder and Dean McFarlane.
The NOSB is a nationwide academic competition aimed at fostering the next generation of marine scientists, policy makers, educators, and environmental stewards. Organized by the Center for Ocean Leadership (COL), a University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) Community Program, the NOSB provides students with opportunities to engage with critical ocean science topics that shape global environmental and policy decisions.
“Congratulations to all the amazing students who brought their A-game to the regional NOSB competitions, highlighting their understanding of the 2025 theme of ocean acoustics,” said Dr. Sonya Legg, Director of the Center for Ocean Leadership. “Your quick thinking, deep knowledge, and hard work is inspiring, and I hope you all continue to ride the wave of curiosity throughout your educational and career paths. I’d also like to thank our regional coordinators and volunteers who ensure the program succeeds at educating students and encouraging them to become the next generation of leaders in ocean and freshwater science.”
The 2025 NOSB regional competitions are made possible through sponsorships from major organizations dedicated to ocean science education and research. Key sponsors include the Schmidt Ocean Institute, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation, IEEE Oceanic Engineering Society, and the National Marine Educators Association. A full list of program sponsors is available at www.nosb.org/current-sponsors.
For students interested in competing in future NOSB events or for organizations looking to support the program, more information can be found at www.nosb.org.
Now in its 27th year, the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB) provides a platform for high school students to explore and deepen their understanding of marine sciences. The competition encourages students to pursue college degrees and careers in ocean science, helping to address critical environmental, economic, and security challenges facing the planet.
The Center for Ocean Leadership (COL), a program within UCAR, facilitates collaboration among government agencies, research institutions, and education organizations to advance ocean science. Its programs focus on ocean education, observation, and stewardship to enhance global scientific understanding and policy development.
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