MHS Debaters Bring Home Hardware From Cavalier Invite

MHS varsity debaters Cam’ron Graham and Elexia Quintanilla brought home trophies from the Cavalier Invitational at Jefferson High School in Sioux Falls on Saturday, January 31. Graham and Quintanilla broke into the octo-finals of Public Forum with their record of 3-2. With 54 speakers competing, Graham also tied for third place in speaker points. He accrued 147 points out of a possible 150.

Debaters from across the states of South Dakota and Nebraska tackled the Public Forum resolution – “Resolved: The Federal Trade Commission should establish a federal regulatory framework for sports betting” –for the first time.

The novice Public Forum team of Bella Hicks and Kinley Van Hoorn finished with a 2-3 record. Tate Pew, debated the morality of nuclear weapons. He finished the tournament with a 1-4 record. Milbank debaters also participated in Congress, extemporaneous speaking, and original oratory.

Kathy Tyler, head coach for the Bulldogs said, “It is truly inspiring to watch high school students debate using research and facts to support their cases, both pro and con. If you get a chance, talk to a debater; ask how much time they spend on their cases, why they debate, what they are  learning, or what their future plans are. Attend a tournament, watch a debate round; you will be amazed!”

What’s next? The Bulldogs will compete in the “Sweetstakes” at Sioux Falls Roosevelt  February 6-7. Tyler says, “This is a huge tournament bringing in schools from Rapid City and various Iowa and Nebraska schools.” Graham, Quintanilla, and Bri Hicks will attend.