Students from Howell High School will represent the Rebels against 192 other schools from around the Tri-State area as part of MSG Varsity's "The Challenge."

Theresa Chillianis, the network's general manager, said the show has become an important part of the area's scholastic scene. "We're proud to celebrate academics on MSG Varsity through 'The Challenge' and to provide these extremely bright students a platform to showcase their talents with their communities," she said.

The host of the show is Jared Cotter who made a name for himself as a semi-finalist on American Idol. He will quiz the students on a variety of subjects including history, arts and literature, current events, math and science. 

When the Rebels take on Indian Hills High School the captain of the squad will be Steven Viera. He will play alongside Drew Kinghorn, Jessalyn Mergerle, Aileen Rivell and alternates Alyssa Aboff and Jack McCabe. The local squad competes under the advisement of Annette Kinsley and Rose Elgayar.

This is just the first round of the tournament with schools going through the elimination rounds before working toward a regional championship which brings a $2500 prize for their school. Each region then competes in the championship round known as the "Tri-State Showdown." 

The winning school not only gets bragging rights for winning the tournament but also gets $10000 in prize money and each student wins $500 for their participation.

The Rebels' appearance will air at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. MSG Varsity is channel 14 for Cablevision customers. More information on the show can be found on the MSG Varsity website.