Entry usually commences after Labor Day and ends in early January. Late entries will be accepted based on space availability at the sectional tournament sites. The earlier the teams enter, the easier it is to organize and schedule the sectional tournament locations; therefore, coaches are encouraged to enter their team early.

High schools entering the Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl pay NO ENTRY FEE. Our tournament is financially supported by the Masons of Illinois.

The simple answer is NO. If a high school desires to participate in the Dale and Lorna Thayer Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl Tournament, the high school Scholastic Bowl Coach should submit her/his entry information to the Tournament Director. The Dale and Lorna Thayer Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl Tournament Committee attempts to obtain Masonic Lodge sponsors for the schools entered in the tournament. Even if a school ends up with no Masonic Lodge sponsor, the school will still be able to compete in our tournament, and the school still pays no entry fee.

There is no penalty to the school if a team must be withdrawn from participation due to scheduling conflicts, weather conditions, health issue, or personal emergencies of team members or coaches, etc. We understand that life happens. Just contact Herman Albers, out Committee Chair as soon as possible.