Speech and Debate Teams Hold Awards Banquet

The MHS debate and speech teams gathered May 2, for an end-of-season awards event or what members refer to as their de-banquet. Award recipients were chosen by the members of the team and the coaches.

Freshman Heidi Capp was named Most Improved Interp Speaker. Hope Osborn, a junior, received the award for Outstanding Oral Interp Speaker. Hope was a first year participant in speech, but a triple threat at State. She garnered a superior distinction in readers theater, storytelling, and serious drama.

Lars Andersen, a freshman and a newcomer to debate, won the Outstanding Novice Forensic Student award for overcoming his fears and improving during the year. Fellow freshman and first year participant Trevor Nolting was named the Most Improved Debater. Trevor received the award based on his unique perspective and ability to put together a sound argument. The Outstanding Debater award went to junior Claire Mischel. Claire started the season late, but gave 100 percent. The team’s leadership award went to junior Nathan Loutsch. Nathan distinguished himself by providing levity this season and his willingness to help other speakers.

The Student Congress award for Most Improved Congressperson went to Lars Andersen. Susan Andersen earned The Friend of Forensics award. Seniors Kimberly Aburto, Devon Balling, and Becca Loeher were recognized for their years of participation, as well as their leadership skills.

The final award of the night, the Clod of the Squad award, was given to the team member who had the most embarrassing moment of the season. Lars Andersen won the award for getting sick at State 20 minutes before the competion started. He rallied and became a finalist. The award was a bucket filled with paper towels, Pepto-Bismol, and mouthwash.

The teams are coached by Caitlyn Oien. Assistant coach is Laura Maag. Twenty-four students participated in speech and debate in 2017-2018 – 14 freshmen, four sophomores, three juniors, and three seniors.