By Emery Smashey
*Article written on December 12, 2018, so some information could be out of date. Thank you for your patience and consideration.
The Bolivar speech and debate program has had a sound season so far, having successes in both the Novice (1st year) and Varsity (2+ years) levels. Our Lincoln-Douglas program in particular has had some good tournaments. Ben Gann, a Novice Lincoln-Douglas student has had a 4th place finish at the Republic tournament, a 1st place finish at the Independence tournament, and a 1st place finish at the Crowder tournament. The Champion and Varsity division LD has had some successes as well. Reed Forester and Ryan Cohen shared a third place Champion Division trophy at Republic on Nov. 3 and Rebecca Munson took home the first place trophy at Republic.
At the Crowder tournament all three Novice policy teams won in quarterfinals, guaranteeing at least a 3rd place trophy for all teams. Mr. Samuel comments on the season so far:
“Speech and Debate is growing in both numbers and strength this year. From our newest form of debate having more competitors to now ranking in the top 100 schools in the nation, BHS students are making great strides to be the best team they can.”
Ben Gann reflects on the team’s synergy:
“This years Novice have met an amazing amount of success in all forms of debate, mostly I feel because of the amount of teamwork and camaraderie I have experienced so far.”
The Debate team will compete at the last tournament of the semester at Springfield Catholic.