DHS Speech & Debate Take First In Sweepstakes

The Doniphan High School Speech & Debate team has kicked off their season with a resounding success at the Jackson High School tournament.

Competing against 13 schools, the DHS team secured the first place sweepstakes award for overall team performance, bringing home seven individual wins.

The team’s standout performances included Laynee Martin and Marissa Jay, who clinched first place in duo interpretation. Zayvean Gehlbach excelled in extemporaneous speaking, also earning a first place finish.

Callie Collins showcased her versatility with second place finishes in both humorous interpretation and radio speaking. Nathan Christian and Lilly Sherman took third place in duet acting, while Ka’Marea Johnson and Alyssa Meyers secured second place in prose reading and storytelling, respectively.

Jennifer Thornton, DHS English and Drama teacher is the MSHSAA speech & debate coach and club sponsor. She said, “I am extremely proud of our team’s performance this year, especially overall. To get a first place sweeps win is very exciting, because each member of our team was a part of that win.”

The DHS Speech & Debate team’s recent success builds on a tradition of excellence, as seen in past achievements such as their return to live competitions in 2022, where they brought home multiple awards.

This latest victory underscores the team’s dedication and talent, setting a promising tone for the rest of the season.