Concordia Forensics hosts speech and debate tournament

The Concordia University forensics department hosted the university’s annual fall Bulldog Tournament speech and debate event on the Concordia campus on Saturday, September 30.   

“I'm proud of what our team accomplished at this tournament,” said Concordia Nebraska Assistant Coach of Speech and Debate Malia Frerking. “We had a good turnout from other schools, which led to some fierce competition. This was a good litmus test for the rest of the year, and things are looking good!” 

Participating schools included Concordia Nebraska, University of Nebraska Lincoln, University of Nebraska Omaha, Doane University, Hastings College, Wayne State College, South Dakota State University, Bethel College and Kansas State University. Concordia faculty and alumni helped judge the event.

Four Concordia Nebraska parliamentary debate teams participated, and the university’s students also participated in a variety of speech events. 

Concordia Nebraska students placed in a variety of tournament events. Senior Alex Vieselmeyer placed third in after dinner speaking. 

“This tournament was a great start to the speech season,” said Vieselmeyer. “Competitors were excited at not only performing events for the first tournament, but further excited for it being here at Concordia where many friends and family supported us in person. Several of us managed to make it to finals and receive bids for qualifying to the national tournament. There were some nerves, but thanks to support from teammates and trust in our events, we made a stellar first impression for the year.” 

Senior Tristin Kinderknecht placed second in impromptu speaking and sixth in extemporaneous speaking.  

“This was my last home tournament as a Concordia Bulldog, and I wouldn’t have wanted it to end any other way,” said Kinderknecht. “Being able to build off of success is always a wonderful feeling. However, it’s so much more magical in front of everyone you consider family.” 

Sophomore Brynn Holtmeier placed third in persuasive speaking.  

“It was great getting to start the season off with our home meet!” said Holtmeier.  “Placing third in persuasive was huge for me because it’s the event that I have competed in the most. I am proud of what everyone accomplished and am excited for the rest of the season! This weekend was just the beginning of a great season!” 

Thomas Welch and McKenna McSpadden placed first in parliamentary debate - the duo is undefeated - with Micah Knerl and Eden Lehr following close behind in second place. Ethan Reynolds and Marlie Mundt placed third in due interpretation.  

“The debate team has grown a lot, and I’m really proud of how much work the team has put in so far,” said McSpadden, who is a senior. “This tournament was so fun because we could all just cheer each other on. We’re competitive, but in the most supportive way, and in the end it was a Concordia win no matter who won the day.” 

Are you interested in learning more about speech and debate at Concordia Nebraska? Read more here.