Saieesh Rao
| Saieesh Rao | |
| Noted subjects | Geography, Mythology, Chemistry, Biology |
| Current college | University of Chicago (2013-2017) |
| High school | Illinois Math and Science Academy (2010-2013), Stevenson (2009-2010) |
| Middle school | Twin Groves (2007-2009) |
| Stats | HDWhite • NAQT |
Saieesh Rao was a former player at the Illinois Math and Science Academy (IMSA) and the University of Chicago. He is notable for being the only person to have played for the IHSA State Championship-winning school in four consecutive years (2010-2013). During his tenure, Saieesh was respected for contributions in varied areas such as geography, science, and mythology, as they reflected "true knowledge" rather than studies specifically for Quiz Bowl.
Saieesh's quizbowl career began at Twin Groves Middle School; during his leadership of the team, it was the only team in the region that could upset the Barrington Station juggernaut.
In his high school career, Saieesh's notable accomplishments include an instrumental role in IMSA's three consecutive IHSA state championships (2011-2013) as well as 3rd-1st-3rd places at the 2011-2013 Illinois Masonic Tournaments, 4th place at the 2013 Illinois NAQT State Championship, and a 13th place finish nationally at the 2011 NAQT HSNCT. Individually, he was a Top 7 finalist at Scobol Solo during his senior year, making the wildcard slot as the player with a 5-2 record with the highest PPG.
Saieesh was a question writer and editor for the IMSANITY tournament series in years 2011-2013.