Students in Prodell Middle School tested their physics and engineering skills in a three-day catapult tournament. Mr. Kevin Willi’s eighth grade science class drew on their knowledge of elastic potential energy, kinetic energy, simple machines, projectile motion and force to research, design, build and operate a catapult. Each catapult was designed to launch a pingpong ball over 13 feet to knock over their opponents’ castle, a creative construction of stacks of plastic cups. After some fierce competition and some upset wins, Team Yummy Cheese Sticks – Timmy Hammer, Patrick Morano and Chase VanHouten – were declared the champions.

“Congratulations to our winners and all who participated,” Mr. Willi said.