Debaters bring home gold medals

The debate side of the Bulldog speech and debate team racked up two firsts and a third at the Libby Invitational, propelling the 'Dogs to a second-place finish.

Seniors Josh Schott and Derek Janni took first and third respectively in Lincoln-Douglas debate, and seniors Jack Hyer and Joe Mazur teamed up to claim first place in policy debate.

"Josh has competed in Lincoln-Douglas for a few years, but in the past he has not been recognized for the quality debater that he is," Whitefish debate coach Sandy Alessi said. "Derek competed in Lincoln-Douglas debate for the first time this weekend and took third, so he's showing a lot of potential."

This is Schott's third year competing in Lincoln-Douglas debate, which requires persuasive arguing on both sides of an issue. In previous years, Schott has had very strong feelings on one side of an issue.

"In that situation, it's hard to speak persuasively on the other side," Schott said.

This year's topic, compulsory immunizations, offered compelling arguments on both sides, and Schott was comfortable arguing either way.

Hyer walked off with the gold in his first outing as a policy debater. When asked how that felt, Hyer said, "I really didn't know what I was getting into, but it felt good." Hyer and Mazur, the returning state champion, should make a formidable team this season.

"Sandy and I are optimistic about the showing at Libby," head coach Pat McLaughlin said. "Finally, we have members who are finished with other events."

The Bulldogs had a bit of a slow start this season because many team members were finishing up other academic and sport commitments.

Other Bulldogs placing were junior Julie Peterman, taking fourth in original oratory, and senior Haley Hill, who finished in seventh in memorized public address.

Whitefish travels to Hamilton for a two-day tournament on Nov. 20 and 21.