Bobcat Speech and Debate crowned champs at Jackson

The Hot Springs Speech and Debate Team brought home a second straight 1A/2A Championship trophy after taking first at the Jackson Teton Invitational Speech and Debate Tournament held at Jackson Hole High School on February 2-3, 2024. The Bobcats brought 18 students to compete in the tournament that hosted 12 schools and over 250 entries. 

Seniors Ivey Goff and Brison Steere continued a strong season with their second place finish in Duo Interpretation, and Goff also placed second in Humorous Interpretation.  Senior Julia Quintanilla also completed another impressive tournament with fourth place finishes in both Poetry Interpretation and Duo with partner and junior Zoey Larson. Quintanilla also broke into semifinals in Original Spoken Word Poetry.

Junior Brendan Butler finished fifth in Humorous Interpretation and sixth in Extemporaneous Debate.  Freshman Annie Sharp broke through in Extemporaneous Debate with a third place finish and a 3-1 overall record. 

Sophomore Dean Bihr added to a great season with a break to Super Congress and an overall seventh place finish.

Head Coach Lyle Wiley continues to be impressed by the young group of performers and debaters. “These are tough rounds in tough tournaments, and our students continue to bring their best effort and work hard,” said Wiley.

Assistant Coach Riley Jeffs praised the efforts of the veterans on the team.  He said, “The seniors and longstanding members of the team have put in a lot of work, and it has been great to watch them experience success. Plus, they are flat out having fun, and it is lovely to witness.” 

Co-team Captain and junior Rosalie Willson expressed pride for the new team members who are improving all time.  Willson said, “I love our young competitors and how much they work hard for our team.  Their passion grows with every tournament, and it is so fun to watch these competitors blossom as the year goes on.”

 Next up, the Bobcats will be competing at the Roverton (dog themed) Speech and Debate Tournament at Riverton High School on February 9-10.