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2024/25 Season News


A wrap up of news from the 2024/25 Odyssey season in New York. Fantastic results for Team NY at the recent World Finals in East Lansing MI, photos from WF 2025, a last call for pin designs and a peek at the recently released synopses for next year's Long-Term Problems.


New York has great success at World Finals

What a fantastic year for Team New York, with more world champions (4) than any other association and a record 13 top 6 finishes. WOW!

 

The OM-Mazing Race Div II

2nd iPad Rehab Microsoldering, Honeoye Falls, NY    

5th Warwick Valley Middle School, Warwick, NY

 

The OM-Mazing Race Div III

1st Geneseo Middle/High School, Geneseo, NY                                

3rd Warwick Valley High School, Warwick, NY

 

Mech-Animal Sidekick Div I

1st Warwick Valley Middle School, Warwick, NY 

 

Mech-Animal Sidekick Div III

5th Broadalbin-Perth Jr/Sr High School, Broadalbin, NY

 

Cooking with Books Div I

1st Long Beach Elementary School, Long Beach, NY

 

Cooking with Books Div II

4th Goshen Middle School, Goshen, NY

 

Cooking with Books Div III

1st Goshen High School, Goshen, NY

4th Hoosic Valley High School, Schaghticoke, NY

 

AstronOMical Odyssey! Div II

3rd Long Beach Middle School, Lido Boulevard, NY

6th Vestal Middle School, Vestal, NY

 

AstronOMical Odyssey! Div III

6th Warwick Valley High School, Warwick, NY


AND


Carly Seligman from Goshen NY won an OMER's Award

Problem 3: Classics… Cooking with Books Division III


Carly Seligman has been an OMer for 7 years. She exemplifies how Odyssey can be life-changing. When she started, she overcame her stage-fright by playing the flute to “speak”. As time went on, Carly added very minor speaking roles, each a step out of her shell. This year, her last year performing on the OM stage, for the first time, she played a scored lead role, as Alice. She proudly and loudly sang and danced the whole performance, a huge accomplishment and triumph over her history of stage-fright! Odyssey of the Mind has given her a voice. Carly already has plans to become a coach for younger kids during her senior year and give back to the kids in her community, to share with them what OM has taught her.


AND


New York won "Most Creative Booth"

at the Creativity Festival.


Thanks to Melissa and Tim Talma for coming up with a tricky, informative, artistic and innovative giant maze game that had OMers lining up to try their luck.




Check out a little taste of World Finals...


Random photos from East Lansing



Pin Design Contest

As you know pin trading is a BIG thing at World Finals. Every year there is a must have set of pins, or pin.


At World Finals this year "Wicked" themed pins were all the rage.


If you would like to submit a suggestion for next year's New York pins you dont have much time. The deadline is June 30th.


Please send all submissions to:




Excited about next year?

Have a peek at next year's long-term problems...



 
 
 

April News

Details of the new Pin Design contest, World Finals qualifying teams, OMER's and Ranatra Fusca award winners from States, Scholarship winners from NYSOMA and COU, and 2025 Friend of NYSOMA and Community Star awards.





Michigan Here We Come!


An outstanding 49 teams will be representing NY at the 2025 World Finals at Michigan State University in May.


Join us in cheering them on and wishing them all the best!




Allegany Limestone MS/HS  Ballston Spa MS, Bethlehem Central HS (2 teams), Broadalbin Perthe Jr/Sr HS,  Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake HS, Circleville ES, Dake Jr HS, Fairport Odyssey of the Mind (2 teams), First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles, Geneseo MS/HS, Goshen HS, Goshen MS, Grace Collaborative, Homer Brink ES (2 teams), Hoosic Valley HS,  Hunter Tannersville MS/HS,  iPad Rehab Microsoldering, Johnstown HS, Lansingburgh HS, Long Beach ES (3 teams), Long Beach MS (2 teams),  Mendon Center ES, Middletown HS, Mount Morris MS/Sr HS, Park Ave ES, Park Road ES,  Pine Bush HS,  Questar III and HVCC STEM HS, Salamanca HS, Sandfordville ES, Sherburne-Earlville MS,  St John the Evangelist School, Vestal MS, Warwick Valley HS (2 teams), Warwick Valley MS (2 teams), Wellsville ES, York ES, York MS/HS (4 teams)



Ranatra Fusca


Team – P1D2 - Sherburne Earlville Middle School.


Team – P1D1 – Sandfordville ES


Both teams are advancing to World Finals in Michigan.  Congratulations!!



OMER's Awards


Reverand Michael Hill, First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles – R11

This year, our Odyssey of the Mind program found itself unexpectedly without a home. Just as we were starting to feel completely unmoored, this Reverand and the entire Church community opened their doors-and their hearts.

With no hesitation, no red tape, and not one word of complaint, this individual gave the team an incredible amount of space: rooms to build, spaces to rehearse, storage for our wild creations. They sponsored us under their insurance and never once blinked at the noise, the mess, or the chaos that naturally comes with an Odyssey team in full creative motion.

He spoke with genuine delight about the energy and life the kids brought into the church. That warmth, that support, that sense of celebration instead of mere permission-it meant everything to us!

 

Carly Seligman, Goshen HS – R5

This OMER started OM 7 years ago as a musician, with her flute and handmade instruments as her voice. She slowly progressed due to OM, and this year, her final year competing, she has a vocal lead role as Alice from the Looking Glass, a required character. It's amazing to see her on the stage with such enthusiasm, singing, dancing and speaking. She comes to life on that OM stage, and those that know her are astonished and so proud of her. She wants to help coach next year as a senior in HS to help other children

 

Sierra Obernesser, Bethlehem School District – R7

This team member has been competing in Odyssey for over 10 years, but more importantly for the past 5 years, she has not only been part of a team, but also a student coach assisting in 8 teams this year. While competing in 2 very competitive high school level sports, and volunteering to coach 2-3 days per week for her 8 teams, she hung in there helping and encouraging everyone along the way even with so much pressure on her. She has been the reason why I continued to do Odyssey this year, and I don't think I ever would have if I didn't meet her.

 

Doug McConnell, Long Beach School District – R2

This coach has been the single biggest supporter and coach of the OM program in our school. Our history with the program goes back for many years but, his impact is unparalleled. Since taking the reigns over 8 years ago he expanded the program across the elementary and middle schools. When the middle school coach could no longer continue, he stepped in and recruited more coaches to keep the program going. He has expanded the amount of teams so more kids could participate and worked with the kids to elevate our program. He is a constant advocate for all of the kids with the parents and our District. His energy is endless and the kids light up when he enters the room.

 

Yara Shihada, Michelle Gimena, Port Jervis HS – R5

Four of their team members who performed at regionals were unfortunately not able to participate in the state tournament. These two team members revamped their

entire skit and created puppets in place of their missing team members. They

exemplify grit and perseverance. They have accepted this challenge with the highest level of sportsmanship; embracing it, enjoying it, and creating a solution in a short window to be able to keep the show on the road!

 

Buraq Amin, Pittsford MS – R14

This person brought real-world leadership into the classroom, drawing from her college education to teach teamwork, creativity, and resilience. She empowered the girls to understand power tools, explore science, ask questions, laws of physics and take full ownership of their work, insisting (parents) step back and not be involved so the kids could shine on their own. She checked in with each child individually, making sure they felt seen, supported, and valued in their team.

She represents the kind of leadership our society desperately needs. She leads by example, not for recognition, but because she genuinely cares.



NYSOMA Scholarships

This year three HS seniors were each awarded $1,000 scholarships to help with the cost of college. OMers were challenged to create a creative and effective video to sell Odyssey of the Mind to prospective team members, coaches or sponsoring organizations/schools. Here are details of our awardees and a link to their winning submissions.


Anna Buchanan

"I’m Anna Buchanan from Washingtonville High School (Region 5)! I have done Odyssey for ten years, every year since third grade. I started when I moved to a new school, and Odyssey was a perfect way for me to make new friends and use my creative skills in a productive manner. I kept going back to Odyssey year after year because of how much I enjoyed it and felt like I belonged.


I have done every problem besides structure and have placed nearly every year, going to States twice (three if the Covid year hadn’t messed up plans). I am now a better public speaker and feel more confident in sharing my skills and talents with others. For high school, I am the Team Captain and have learned how to manage a team along with doing my own projects.


I plan on attending a four-year University and getting a degree in Environmental Science and possibly becoming an Environmental Engineer. Odyssey has changed my life and put me on the path to success. I am forever grateful to all of the wonderful people who made Odyssey real and allowed it to happen in my region."




Rylee Hoornbeck

"My name is Rylee Hoornbeck and I participated in the Pine Bush School District’s (Region 5) Odyssey of the Mind program for seven years. Competing for six of those years, I have learned to embrace challenges, think creatively, and work with a team to bring many intricate ideas to life.

Through my years of participation, "I have found myself constructing elaborate props and writing humorous scripts. Odyssey has given me the space to push boundaries and develop problem-solving skills that extend far beyond competition. Through Odyssey of the Mind, I have gained confidence, and the ability to think unconventionally. I have also made most of my best friends that I think will last a lifetime.


The experience of brainstorming wild ideas, turning them into something functional, and presenting them with my team has shaped how I approach challenges in all aspects of life.

This Fall, I will be attending Pace University’s Honors College in New York City, where I plan to major in Chemistry. I truly believe that Odyssey of the Mind will have a lasting impact on the way I think and help me succeed in college."




Ashton Talma

"I am Ashton Talma from Fairport (Region 14) and since third grade, I have been deeply engaged in Odyssey of the Mind. This program has fueled my passion for thinking outside the box and strengthened my ability to apply critical thinking, teamwork, and resourcefulness. Odyssey of the Mind is not just about finding a solution; it is about developing unique, imaginative approaches to complex problems.


In Odyssey of the Mind, my team has tackled a variety of challenges, excelling in theatrical performances. I have written scripts, composed songs, choreographed dances, and built devices to create engaging eight-minute skits. These experiences have strengthened my creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, which I know will be invaluable in my future. Through dedication and teamwork, my team has placed third in the World twice and fifth once.


My experiences in Odyssey have inspired me to pursue a career in the medical field, where creative problem-solving is essential. I plan to attend SUNY Albany to study Biology, using the skills I have gained to address real-world challenges in medicine."




COU Scholarships and Odyssey Alumni Awards

- New York recipients


1. Harold Kurtz Scholarship Odyssey - Problem 5 - Ashton Talma

Awarded to a HS senior who is a current or past Problem 5 participant and is planning on a career in education.

 

2. Creative Opportunities Unlimited Visionary Scholarships - Abigail McCarthy, Brynn Crewell

Awarded for their commitment to and involvement in the Odyssey of the Mind program with intentions to continue as an Odyssey of the Mind participant/volunteer, and career or life plans directly related to one's involvement in Odyssey of the Mind.

 

3. 2025 Alumni Ambassador Award – Veronica Talma

Veronica will be attending World Finals to represent and assist Creative Opportunities Unlimited and Odyssey Alumni at World Finals at the Creativity Festival. If you are MSU bound, go and say hello to her at the COU desk at the Creativity Festival.

 


COU Sweepstakes

Creative Opportunities Unlimited (COU) hosts an annual sweepstakes to generate funds used to support scholarships, conference attendance, and other association support. The winners receive a collection of current WF pins, which is an incredible prize!

 

If you are interested in entering the sweepstakes. Here is the link:



Friend of NYSOMA


This award was established by the NYSOMA Board of Directors to honor the service of individuals, who through personal action demonstrate, in an extraordinary way, those social values affirmed to the goals of New York State Odyssey of the Mind. The inscription on the plaque reads: “In recognition and appreciation of unique talents and creative energies offered on behalf of NYSOMA.”

With a new program comes a lot of challenges and NYSOMA could not have managed to make this new program available in NY without the tireless and inspirational work of Jodi Antin.


Jodi has trained and supported staff and attended the presentations of the teams as they show case their solution to the modified long-term problem.

Jodie has long-term visions for the program in New York, planning out-reach and working on potential funding. She has done this while also supporting her own region14 as Co-Regional Director.


Jodi is incredibly committed to Odyssey Inclusive and strongly believes that this modified version of Odyssey has unique benefits for this population. Jodi is a true advocate not only for Odyssey of the Mind but also for Odyssey Inclusive.

 

NYSOMA is delighted to award Jodi Antin with the Friend of NYSOMA award.



Community Star Award


The Community Star Award is to honor individuals within our Odyssey community who go above and beyond, often without recognition.


This nominee as well as coaching and using Odyssey principles within her classroom has also promoted the program at conferences.


Colleagues from her region had this to say about her:

“No matter how many teams or students she is wrangling, she is always calm, organized, and enthusiastic. She truly would rather give every student possible, a chance to participate, even if it means she must shoulder all the coaching duties. She’s pretty impressive!”


Indeed, this became a reality this year when this coach had so many students in her middle school wanting to be on an Odyssey team, that rather than turn anyone away, she took on coaching not one or two teams but eight with 50 students participating in the program! 


NYSOMA is delighted to recognize from Region 7 - Rebecca Beiter for her dedication and commitment to the Odyssey of the Mind program within her community.

 
 
 

March News


Getting ready for State Finals!
Getting ready for State Finals!

Syracuse Crunch


Looking to do something with your team on Friday night?


The Syracuse Crunch, a minor league Hockey Team, have set aside a section of the Upstate Medical University Arena at the Oncenter for NY Odyssey State finalists. Discount tickets ($18) are available for the 7pm game against the Toronto Marlies – download a flyer to distribute to teams and supporters.



Tickets must be pre ordered bay calling Joe Martin at 315-473-4444 ext 110 or emailing jmartin@syracusecrunch.com by April 4th.


On Saturday representatives from the Crunch will be in the Science & Industry building doing some fun activities with OMers and handing out free logo merchandise. Come say hello!

 


Shout Outs


Send a good luck message to your teams!


Every year we have a giant LED (17x10 ft) trailer which shows Team Shout Outs throughout the day, near the Chevy Court (opposite the Food Trucks). Later the trailer is moved into the Center of Progress for the Dance Party and Awards Ceremony.


Teams love seeing themselves and message of support from schools, coaches and supporters. Check out last years shoutouts to see what they could look like. Not sure you have any graphic design skills? – no problem. Just upload a photo, a message and a color scheme and our talented graphic designer will put one together for you.


If you already have a finished pdf or jpeg you can upload it instead. Submit here. Deadline for submission is Thursday April 3rd.

 


Team Photos


Want to showcase your team’s style?


Consider uploading a picture of your team’s performance, or of them just having fun at State Finals. Pictures will be shown on the LED screen during the Dance Party, and who knows might also be featured on the NYSOMA Social media accounts (Facebook & Instagram).


All submitted photos will be posted on the NY Odyssey website.

 


Activities


Want some fun activities to do at The Fairgrounds, when you have a break from competing?


Check out the Activities page on the website. At the Science and Industry building there are fun games of chance, games to play, interesting exhibits about the NY State bird (the Bluebird) and a museum quality display of mounted insects (with Dr Bug).


Pin fanatics have the opportunity to trade pins with other teams and can look at every pin produced by NY Odyssey since 2012 in a special display… WOW!






And last but not least…the PUPPIES are back!


Guiding Eye dogs in training will be returning to the State Tournament to gain experience in crowds and with excited OMers. Come pet a pooch!





 









Souvenirs

Want to pick up some pins, a cute Raccoon plushy or other NYOM souvenirs and apparel?



From 8am-4pm in Science & Industry, 10am-2pm in The Solvay HS Cafeteria (limited range of items) NY Odyssey’s tireless sales team will be happy to help you select some precious mementos of State Finals and your Odyssey journey this year.


Check out a sneak peak of some of the items here, but visit the sales table in Science & Industry to view the full range of New York Odyssey souvenirs.

 



Want something flashy?


Blinky LED items will be on sale in the Center of progress from 4:30pm onwards. Make the dance party special with your own LED light sabers, batons, head gear and other items !!

 





Six

Have you worked it out?


The theme for this year’s T-Shirt and Hoody is based on the hit Broadway show “Six”. A rock musical about the 6 wives of Henry VIII.


This years playbill pin features “Six – The Problems”

Instead of the wives chorus lamenting their fates

Divorced, Beheaded, Died, Divorced, Beheaded, Survived


We have an Odyssey twist on the creative endeavors of New York teams, striving to solve their long-term challenges.

Create, Devise, Transform, Create, Revise, Perform!




Prop Drop


This year we are trying something different to reduce the stress and traffic congestion on Tournament day when everyone is trying to deliver and unload their props. We are allowing teams from 3 problems (Problem 1, 4 & 5) to unload their props at 3 buildings (Center of Progress, Horticulture and Dairy & Cattle) from 3pm-7pm on Friday, the day before the competition. After 7pm the building will be locked and items securely stored until the building open up at 6:30am on Saturday. Hopefully this will improve things on the day and teams and supporters will act respectfully around other competitors’ props, allowing us to continue to offer this flexibility in the future.

 


Social Media


Our Instagram team will be active around the Tournament during the day, and at the Dance Party and Awards in the evening, taking and posting pictures, stories and reels. Look out for them and help share the creativity and excitement of Tournament Day in New York.

Important updates will also be posted on our Facebook page.

 


Any other questions?


Check out our State Finals FAQ page, or submit a message on the NY Odyssey website.

 
 
 
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