Sierra Lutheran High School wins fifth regional Academic Olympics

Continuing a streak that began in 2004, the Falcons of Minden-based Sierra Lutheran High School have won the northwest regional Academic Olympic title for the fifth consecutive year.

As a result, the two-time defending state champions will have an opportunity to defend their titles at the state tournament in Tonopah on Monday.

"This is a very gratifying accomplishment for these students," said Norm Brauer, team coach and executive director of the school. "Many in the region felt that our program would be vulnerable this year after we lost five outstanding competitors to graduation. The new group is excited to maintain the tradition of academic excellence and to have the chance to defend our state title."

Virginia City and Coleville high schools also qualified in the 1A region for the state championship.