Knox Speech and Debate Team competes at National Tournament in Kansas

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - The Knox Junior High Speech and Debate Team took nine students to the National Speech & Debate Tournament in Overland Park, Kansas, June 17-20. Over 100 teams from across the United States and around the world participated in the event.

The National Speech & Debate Tournament is the largest academic competition in the world.

Students must qualify through a district tournament in order to attend and compete for more than $200,000 in college scholarships in one of 11 main events—Policy Debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Public Forum Debate, Congressional Debate-House, Congressional Debate-Senate, Original Oratory, United States Extemporaneous Speaking, International Extemporaneous Speaking, Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation, and Duo Interpretation. There are also seven consolation and supplemental events.

Vishnu Sajit won first place in Congressional Debate – House and was elected as Presiding Officer for several debate sessions.

Ashley Coy served as Presiding Officer for a preliminary debate round.

Devin Metzger received a Top Speaker award placing 3rd in addition to breaking to OctaFinals in Lincoln-Douglas Debate.

Ben Scarborough broke to Double OctaFinals in Lincoln-Douglas Debate.

Dylan Mitchell broke to QuarterFinals in Extemporaneous Speaking.

Teacher Judi Wilson won the coaches award for "School of Excellence in Debate."