Ronan speech, debate claims second at Class B/C State
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News from Ronan
High School
ENNIS — The Ronan High School Speech and Debate team capped off a strong season with a second-place finish at the State B/C Speech, Drama, and Debate Tournament in Ennis. The Chiefs and Maidens earned a combined 70 points to edge out all class B and C teams except Loyola Sacred Heart, who picked up its 33rd consecutive state championship.
“It was truly a team effort,” Coach Amy Miller said. “We took 16 team members to state, and almost everyone contributed points. The competition was the best it’s been in years, and the kids delivered every single round under immense pressure.”
Leading the Chiefs and Maidens was Daniel Koehler, a junior, who picked up his second consecutive state championship in Dramatic Interpretation. Seniors Ryan Dresen and Jessie Lewis both had second place finishes in Humorous Interpretation and Spontaneous Interpretation, respectively. Senior Kail Cheff took third place in Extemporaneous Speaking.
Other state finalists included Roman Hall (fifth place in Humorous Interpretation), Makayla Camel (eighth place in Expository Speaking), Ashley McCready (seventh place in Dramatic Solo), and Kelea Ilac (sixth place in Impromptu Speaking).
Ronan’s Policy Debate teams, Jenaya Burns and Aurrora Watkins and Julia Matkovich and Alex Berna, both picked up two wins apiece, bringing debate points to the team total for the first time in several years.
Elijah Carey (Dramatic Interpretation) and Kara Holmlund (Extemporaneous Speaking) both narrowly missed a trip to semifinals, but had a strong showing in preliminary rounds.
“The success of these young adults is a testament to their hard work and dedication,” said Coach Stephanie Swigart. “Their commitment to being excellent is truly inspiring.”
