Elevating Discourse: Bozeman and Gallatin High Schools Triumph in 2023 Speech and Debate Season, Secure National Berths

Bozeman High seniors Sparta Evans, Hugh Burroughs, Raven West, and Caitlin Williams

Triumphant Victory: Bozeman and Gallatin High Schools Excel in Speech and Debate, Secure Spot at Nationals

Bozeman and Gallatin High Schools Speech and Debate Team

In a triumphant display of skill and determination, the speech and debate teams from Bozeman and Gallatin High Schools have once again established their dominance, earning coveted spots at the highly anticipated 2023 National Speech and Debate Association High School National Tournament slated for June. With a combined total of 30 exceptional students, these schools are poised to leave an indelible mark on the national stage.

The year 2023 has proven to be a shining moment for both Bozeman and Gallatin High Schools. Bozeman High secured its third consecutive state championship in late January, emerging as the uncontested winner across all four categories of the prestigious sweepstakes award. Similarly, Gallatin High achieved an impressive third-place ranking in both speech and debate categories, contributing significantly to their commendable overall standing. As the excitement builds, Bozeman High will be sending an impressive contingent of 26 accomplished competitors to the forthcoming nationals in Phoenix, while Gallatin will be represented by four outstanding participants.

The journey to success has not been devoid of challenges. Bozeman High’s Hawker Sparta Evans, at the age of 17, faced an initial hurdle at the beginning of the season. With limited time to prepare for her dramatic interpretation speech, Evans acknowledged the late nights and unwavering commitment required to achieve the desired results. She shared, “It definitely takes some late nights, you know, being willing to stay a little later than you might usually want to, to achieve the outcomes you aspire to.” However, her dedication and resilience paid off, attributing her success to the unwavering support of her remarkable teammates and coaches.

At the helm of success, 18-year-old Hugh Burroughs, a seasoned four-year member of the team, maintained an impressive winning record. Collaborating with partner Chandler May, he clinched the state championship in the dramatic interpretation category. Reflecting on his journey, Burroughs expressed gratitude, stating, “It’s been truly exceptional, especially for my senior year, culminating in the qualification of so many talented individuals.” Crafting an impactful speech demands unwavering effort and dedication, and Burroughs emphasized that there are no shortcuts to achieving excellence. He added, “I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. Every minute of it has been an absolute joy.”

Another committed team member, Raven West, aged 17, has dedicated four years to the team. As she contemplates bidding farewell, West remains optimistic about her future role as a coach. She shared, “I have cherished witnessing the remarkable transformation of individuals I’ve coached over the years into exceptional speakers. While leaving them is undoubtedly a bittersweet moment, I am hopeful about returning as a coach, contributing to their growth.” The platform provided by the speech and debate team has allowed her to passionately address subjects close to her heart while honing her eloquence and public speaking prowess.

Of particular note are Caitlin Williams and Ian Becker, whose stellar performance has set a new benchmark. With an impressive 41-2 record in debate, they secured a remarkable achievement – the best single-season debate record of any style in the state of Montana. Engaging in thought-provoking debates is no easy feat. Williams shared that her debate subject delved into NATO and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and cybersecurity. She acknowledged that this level of expertise demands extensive time and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Guiding this constellation of talent is Coach Adam Thane, whose role has been pivotal in nurturing these exceptional individuals. Thane lauded his group of Hawkers as “phenomenal” and emphasized their unique ability to engage in thoughtful discourse, a skill often undervalued in today’s fast-paced world. Thane noted, “Observing these young individuals who possess the ability to listen, express empathy, kindness, and rationality is truly refreshing.”

Speech and Debate Information

As the team looks toward the horizon, May promises to be an eventful month. The team is gearing up for a fundraising event that not only supports the participation of accomplished competitors on the national stage but also contributes to a noble cause. The funds raised will also facilitate the journey of students and coaches to Tanzania, where they will establish the Pan-African Speech and Debate League. This endeavor underscores the team’s commitment to extending the impact of their skills far beyond the competition arena.

The exceptional achievements of Bozeman and Gallatin High School’s speech and debate teams in the dynamic year of 2023 stand as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and profound passion for the art of discourse. As they prepare to leave their mark on the national stage, these remarkable young individuals showcase the transformative power of effective communication and the potential to drive positive change through their voices.

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