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Panther debate team dominates at Junction City
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courtesy photo Great Bend High School debate team travled to Junction City on Sept. 21. Picture are, first row: Ailey Williams, Reese King, Kendra Scheideman; second row: Parker Coleman, Caleb Tudor, Darcy Feist, Steven Guillory; third row: Hunter McClanahan, Rhys Froetschner, Kyra Lewis, Jordan Ochs; fourth row: Analeah Ochs, Diana Stoddard, Zachary Hart and Quinton Heath.

On Saturday, Sept. 21, the Great Bend Panther Debate team started their season with a first place victory in Junction City. Competing against teams from Topeka High, Jefferson West, Emporia, Clay Center and Salina Central, the Panthers established themselves as a dominant force in both the open and novice divisions.

Leading the charge were senior debaters Reese King and Darcy Feist. Undefeated throughout the tournament, the pair claimed first place in the open division, setting a strong tone for the rest of the team.

In addition to King and Feist’s success, several other Panther teams excelled in the open division. Quinton Heath and Kyra Lewis secured second place, while Parker Coleman and Zachary Hart earned a solid seventh place finish. Analeah Ochs and Jordan Ochs finished eighth, followed closely by Kendra Scheideman and Ailey Williams in ninth place, underscoring the depth and talent of the team.

The novice division also saw Great Bend students achieving impressive results. Steven Guillory and Diana Stoddard finished in second place, boasting a 4-1 record in their debut performance.

This year, debate teams across the country are engaging in discussions on strengthening intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Great Bend’s debaters will argue for and against various cases focused on enhancing protections for innovations and creative works. 

Head Coach Kim Heath praised the team’s performance.

“Our older students have really taken on leadership roles, partnering with younger debaters to help them develop their skills,” she said. “Everyone is committed to helping each other out, whether it’s during practice or at tournaments, and that teamwork has been a key factor in our success.”

The Junction City tournament marks the beginning of a promising season for the Panther Debate team, with high hopes of continued success as they move into upcoming competitions. Next Saturday, Sept. 28, the team will compete in a very large tournament at Halstead.


Upcoming events:

Oct. 2 - Fort Hays State University Philosophy Day

Oct. 3 - GBHS Novice Night Debate Tournament

Oct. 5 - At Hoisington

Oct. 12 - At Abilene