Debaters Competed at the College of Southern Idaho on March 8-9, 2014

The James M & Sharon E. Rupp debate society competed at the Pi Kappa Delta regional tournament hosted by the College of Southern Idaho on March 8-9.  The team competed in both NPDA style debate and in individual platform speaking events including communication analysis, extemporaneous, and impromptu.  This was the last competition of the 2013-2014 season for the NPDA debaters.  The policy team will compete twice more at the CEDA and NDT national tournaments at the end of March.

Highlights of the weekend included:   

* Anne Johnson and Robyn Nicole Hemmert having a winning record but missing clearing on points. Anne and Robyn won 75% of their debates and were the 5th seed.  Anne and Robyn have competed at several tournaments this year - always against much more experienced teams.  It was a great opportunity for them to see what they could do when pitted against teams with equal experience.  As Robyn stated, "This was an amazing way to finish up our college debate careers.  Anne Johnson you were the best debate partner ever!" Both Anne and Robyn are seniors.  While we are sad to see them go, we wish them luck and many future successes.  Also, a little bird said that the team might see Anne again in the role of assistant coach and/or judge.

Anne Johnson and Robyn Hemmert at CSI.

* Samantha Richardson was ranked as the first speaker in Round 2 of NPDA debate.  She was also ranked as the 12th speaker in her division of NPDA debate.  Sam gained valuable experience giving several platform speeches in both Extemporaneous and Impromptu.  Sam demonstrated enthusiasm, willingness to try everything, and a continually positive outlook.  Sam is a graduating senior.  She will be missed.  In a recent facebook post, Sam said, "I am more than thankful for the privilege of being able to be a part of Idaho State University - Parli Debate.  I'm sad to see the debate chapter of my life go, but I can't wait to utilize the concepts I've learned in life."

* Krystal Lynes was ranked first in Round 2 of Impromptu.  The judge noted, "I can't tell you how much I appreciate that you took the prompt and developed it into your own thesis.  You . . . gave the deepest analysis and the most original presentation."  She was also ranked as the 11th speaker in her division of NPDA debate. Krystal showed a willingness to step in at the last minute and to keep going even when facing adversity.  We are looking forward to seeing great things from Krystal next year.

Krystal Lynes and Samantha Richardson at CSI

* Cody Harrison and Samantha Bollinger were able to join the team for the last day of the tournament and to participate in Impromptu. The coaches were glad they took the time to drive out and spend time with the team on Sunday.  We are happy to have Samantha Bollinger back in the fall.

Anne Johnson, Cody Harrison, Robyn Hemmert, Samantha Bollinger, Krystal Lynes, and Samantha Richardson at CSI.

Anne Johnson, Dr. Sarah Partlow Lefevre, and Robyn Hemmert.

Samantha Richardson, Assistant Coach Ryan Barber, and Krystal Lines.