Inola High School’s Speech and Debate team brought home multiple medals after competing at the state tournament this past weekend, capping off an impressive and demanding season.
After seven months of competition, the team participated in eight qualifying tournaments, one regional tournament, and ultimately the state tournament. Throughout the season, team members dedicated hundreds of hours to preparing, practicing, and refining their performances.
The state competition, held at Southern Nazarene University, proved to be a historic one for the program. This year’s group of qualifiers is the largest in school history, and several students earned top honors in their respective events.
Leading the way, Cole Cook and Tyler Yoder were crowned State Champions in Humorous Duet, marking the first state championship in program history. Tyler Yoder also made history as the first Inola student to place in all three events at the state level, which is the maximum allowed.
Additional results include:
Tyler Yoder and Gavin Marlin – 4th place, Public Forum Debate
Lily Johnson, Sadie Ferguson, and Cole Cook – 4th place, Policy Debate
Tyler Yoder and Piper Wright – 7th place, Dramatic Duet
Sadie Ferguson – 8th place, Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking
Oscar Humphrey – 8th place, Standard Oratory
Coached by Mrs. Deleea Meeker, the Inola Speech and Debate team’s success is a testament to the students’ dedication, perseverance, and passion for excellence. Their achievements reflect not only individual talent but also the strength and growth of the program as a whole.