Top 10 Tips for Districts

10. Sleep is an important aid to memory. Try not to stay up too late the first night, so you are awake and ready to quiz on Saturday.

9. Protein is brain food. Sugar and carbs give you quick energy, but it is gone in an hour. Protein (eggs, meat, nuts) gives you energy that'll last all day.

8. It is never too late for a last-minute cram session. Even if you have not had your best year for studying, you can still make a difference by memorizing a few FTVs or reading through the last few chapters of 2 Corinthians until you really know it.

7. Studying can be as much a team effort as competing. When you are together on Friday night and Saturday morning, quiz each other to sharpen your reflexes and memories.

6. Half of every competition is mental - if you let yourself be psyched out, you may have lost before you begin. Take time before the quizzes to prepare yourself mentally by praying.

5. Quizzing's ultimate goal is not a trophy or bragging rights. It is to learn the word of God. If you find yourself beginning to obsess over the competition, take a deep breath, relax, and remember where your real priorities lie.

4. Family is a firm foundation. Don't be afraid to ask for help from your parents or siblings if you need it. And remember they are proud of you.

3. Look for every opportunity to help the team. Your opportunity may be on the pads - answering a key question at a key moment - or it may be off the pads - encouraging a teammate, greeting a competitor, or helping out a coach or quizmaster. You never know what little thing may make all the difference.

2. Don't forget to have fun. Competition may sometimes be serious, but Districts is also about having a good time. Don't be afraid to play, tease, and enjoy your time in Hershey.

1. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. (Ephesians 6:10)