MHS debaters tie for third at Haven
Two Marion High School debaters tied for third place Nov. 9 during a debate tournament in Haven.
The team of Sarah Davidson and Amanda Steiner placed third out of 42 teams. The girls had four wins during the competition, defeating Maize, Cheney, Bishop Carroll, and Moundridge.
The two also were ranked as number one speakers in three rounds. Only six teams received medals, explained MHS debate coach Mary Griffith.
Of the six teams medaling, only one was undefeated compiling a 5-0 record. The other five teams all lost one round for a 4-1 record.
"To show how close this tournament was, the team that went 5-0 and got first place had 20 speaker points," Griffith said. "Sarah and Amanda had 21 speaker points."
Griffith said she was pleased with the girls' performance.
"Sarah and Amanda certainly work well together. They seem to bring out each other's good points," she said.
Upcoming action includes a dual with Hillsboro, one of the only other 3A school in the area besides Marion to offer debate.
"We always have a good, friendly competition with Hillsboro," Griffith said. "They're one of the few really close schools around. Usually we have to travel."
This year's topic is "Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should substantially increase public health services for mental health care in the United States."
