The 'Eagle Times' Student Newspaper: News

Brokaw, Hanson argue their way to state title

By Jill Lira

February 07, 2007

The many challenges that present themselves to the world can either be shunned or accepted. Many people go along with decisions, while others spend their time arguing and trying to persuade some to follow their ways. The most common way to explain these tactics is through debate.

At Silver Lake High School, debate has always been important, and the students have experienced continued success. This year, seniors Courtney Brokaw and Donnie Hanson claimed the prestigious title of 3-2-1A state champions in two-speaker debate.

Heading into the state competition, Brokaw and Hanson had already encountered victories throughout the season with four first place finishes, one second place and one fifth place finish. The pair even qualified for a national tournament earlier in the season.

According to Gail Naylor, head debate coach, the two had set high goals throughout the season.

"To win was their goal all season, after qualifying to CFL nationals and placing at NFL districts,"Naylor stated.

Hanson explained how it felt to be a state champion.

"After they announced who won, my hands were shaking. I was so excited. I wanted to yell and scream and jump up and down, but then I remembered I was in debate," Hanson said.

As the only two seniors on the squad, both Brokaw and Hanson faced difficulty teaching their experiences to the younger squad members.

"Being one of the only seniors on the squad was difficult in some senses because it is hard to find someone who can answer some of my questions or to help cut files and front lines. At the same time, it is also rewarding to know that you are helping younger kids," stated Hanson.

Brokaw expressed the same feelings toward the younger squad members. She also explained advice she would give to future debaters.

"Stick with it if you even remotely like it your novice year, and don't expect to be the best. There's always going to be someone that's able to beat you, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't give it your all and try your very best until the end of the round," said Brokaw.

Taking first place at a state tournament usually indicates the team had to dedicate a lot of time to perfect their skills. Naylor said the team was always driven to win.

"They were the only established team with much to prove...They both invested a lot of their summer to debate research and improving their skills. I was especially happy that they beat some of the best teams in the state to prevail," Naylor said.

According to Brokaw, she and Hanson did so well because their minds were set to winning.

"I think we approached the tournament feeling hopeful and confident but the main thing was that we weren't overly confident. We went ready to work for a trophy," Brokaw stated.

Both Brokaw and Hanson had expected to place within the top three, but both are pleased with first. Hanson also commented on why they achieved so much at the state level.

"We did so well because of all the time that we committed to the activity. Every day we were cutting cards and thinking of new arguments," said Hanson.

This year the CFL national competition will be held in Wichita the last week of May. Brokaw explained how relieved she felt going into the national tournament as a state champ.

"Winning felt wonderful. The weight was lifted, and we got to look forward to nationals. It felt like we had succeeded in accomplishing everything we had been planning and working on for the last few years," Brokaw stated.