Davidson, Steiner compete at state debate
Two Marion High School students completed the 2002-03 debate season Friday and Saturday taking three big wins at the 3A-2A-1A State Tournament at Blue Valley.
Sarah Davidson and Amanda Steiner defeated Sterling, Halstead, and Silver Lake, and took losses from Rossville, Lyons, and Ellsworth.
"The girls did not break for finals because they were power-matched," explained Debate Coach Mary Griffith. "They won early which means they were placed in a higher bracket.
"That makes it real tough," she said.
Two of the rounds ended in a 5-5 split.
"Marion was one round short of breaking for finals. However, Sarah was ranked as the number one speaker in two rounds and Amanda was rated as the number 2 speaker in one round."
Griffith said the girls did an excellent job and was pleased with their performance.
"Amanda was a novice who was bumped up to debate with Sarah, an experienced debater," Griffith said.
Amanda's experience, along with other underclassmen team members, should make the next school year a good one for the Marion squad.
"We have a good foundation to build from and I anticipate we'll have more kids out for debate," Griffith said.
The coach also expressed appreciation to Vicki Guetersloh who served as a judge, and Adam and Isaac Guetersloh who worked as timekeepers.
Prior to leaving for state, the debaters were honored during an all-school, send-off assembly where the girls received flowers and balloons.
"I especially appreciate our principal, Ken Arnhold, and some of the parents for coming to Blue Valley Friday night to see us," she said.
"We're thankful for all the dedicated parents who help make events like this happen," Griffith said.
