Lone Jack Scholars Earn I-70 Conference Title

Mules rally from 40-point deficit to beat St Paul Lutheran in final round

Mar. 10, 2026 at 4:08pm

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The Lone Jack Mules scholar bowl team completed an undefeated run in round-robin play to win the I-70 Conference title on Monday, March 9th at Sweet Springs High School. The Mules rallied from a 40-point deficit in the final round to beat St Paul Lutheran 200-190 and claim the conference championship.

Why it matters

The I-70 Conference scholar bowl competition is a prestigious academic event in the region, with the title representing the top performing team across multiple schools. Lone Jack's comeback victory showcases the team's resilience and intellectual prowess, cementing their status as a powerhouse in Missouri high school academics.

The details

Lone Jack captain Parker Nichol led all scorers with 18 tossups, while teammate Hayden Cunliffe added 13 to earn all-conference honors. The Mules claimed three of the last five tossups to erase St Paul Lutheran's 40-point halftime lead and clinch the win. Lone Jack had previously defeated Sweet Springs, Concordia, and Wellington-Napoleon to set up the winner-take-all final round.

  • The I-70 Conference scholar bowl title was decided on Monday, March 9, 2026.
  • Lone Jack will now prepare for their Class Three district competition, which is scheduled for April 18, 2026 in Butler.

The players

Parker Nichol

Captain of the Lone Jack Mules scholar bowl team, who led all scorers with 18 tossups.

Hayden Cunliffe

Member of the Lone Jack Mules scholar bowl team, who earned all-conference honors by scoring 13 tossups.

Robbie England

Head coach of the Lone Jack Mules scholar bowl team.

St Paul Lutheran

The Lone Jack Mules' opponent in the winner-take-all final round of the I-70 Conference scholar bowl competition.

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What they’re saying

“I encouraged my team to channel another comeback story when we entered halftime down by 10.”

— Parker Nichol, Captain

“Our partnership has helped to lift the Mules to this year's conference title.”

— Parker Nichol, Captain

What’s next

Lone Jack and head coach Robbie England will now prepare for their Class Three district competition, which is scheduled for April 18, 2026 in Butler.

The takeaway

Lone Jack's comeback victory in the I-70 Conference scholar bowl final showcases the team's resilience, intellectual prowess, and status as a powerhouse in Missouri high school academics. The Mules' success is a testament to the hard work and partnership of their star players, as well as the leadership of their head coach.