Carroll High School rising junior Praneel Veerabathina recently made history in the global Odyssey of the Mind program as the youngest co-coach to lead a team to the World Finals. At just 15, Praneel guided a local elementary team to victory at both the regional and state levels, culminating in an impressive showing at the World Finals in Michigan this May.
A participant in Odyssey of the Mind since kindergarten, Praneel has advanced to the international stage five times as a team member. But it was his transition into coaching that earned him special recognition: the prestigious OMER Award, presented at the state competition in Houston this March. The award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional creativity, leadership, sportsmanship and inspiration.
Praneel’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed—parents created a door poster in his honor at the World Finals, and his handmade Texas-themed hat was spotlighted in both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies attended by thousands from around the world.