Dublin Jerome High School Teams Capture All Three Titles at the 2026 Ohio Japan Bowl
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
February 14, 2026 | Marysville, Ohio
The 2026 Ohio Japan Bowl was held on February 14, 2026, at Marysville Early College High School, bringing together 14 teams from four schools across Central Ohio for a day of spirited competition and celebration of Japanese language and culture.
Congratulations to this year’s champion teams, all representing Dublin Jerome High School:
Level II Champions: Diya Ruppa, Serena Bai, and David Wang
Level III Champions: Aleese Fakir, Leah Fakir, and Valentina Davila
Level IV Champions: Aaron Coleman, Shane Summers, and Rei Sykes
In addition to earning championship trophies, the three winning teams qualified to compete in the 34th National Japan Bowl in Washington, D.C. The Level III team of Aleese Fakir, Leah Fakir, and Valentina Davila also achieved the highest score in the final round across all levels, earning JASCO support of up to $2,500 toward their participation in the National Japan Bowl.
The competition began in the morning with preliminary rounds for Levels II, III, and IV. Teams consisting of two to three students from the same high school answered 50 questions covering Japanese language, history, geography, society, and culture. With the support of JASCO volunteers serving as proctors and graders, the top three teams from each level advanced to the afternoon final round.
While scores were being tabulated and finalists determined, participants enjoyed a special cultural presentation by guests from Fukui Prefectural University’s nursing program. In honor of Valentine’s Day, the visitors shared how the holiday is celebrated in Japan and led students in a hands-on origami workshop, teaching participants how to create heart-shaped origami.
During the final competition, held before an audience, the finalist teams demonstrated their knowledge and teamwork in a fast-paced contest across three levels. The final-round judging panel included JASCO Board Directors Ms. McCullough and Mr. Yamakawa, as well as Ms. Naraoka, a lecturer in The Ohio State University’s Japanese Language Program.
JASCO is proud of the dedication and hard work demonstrated by all participating students and extends its appreciation to the teachers, families, and friends who supported them throughout the competition. We are also grateful to the seven volunteers who generously gave their time to make the event a success. Finally, JASCO extends its sincere thanks to Anthony Weis, Noriko Mills, and Mari Noda, whose leadership and support helped make the 2026 Ohio Japan Bowl possible.
See more photos of the event here:
Comments