Debate students attended a Congress tournament at the State Capitol in Austin on January 7th and 8th. Josh Yarborough, Logan Herrera, and Cody Gustafson were the three students who competed.

“It was a really good competition, and the 4A room was very competitive,” debate coach Rory McKenzie said.

All three boys had to write negative and affirmative speeches and gather evidence in order to prepare for the tournament. They each also practiced being presiding officer.

“It was a lot of hard work,” Cody said. “Between everyone that went, 60 different pieces of evidence were gathered.”

This year was also the very first year that Congressional Debate was recognized as a UIL event.

“Being part of the first group to go to state for congress was really cool,” Cody said. “It was something most people can’t say they’ve done.”

No one from Lindale placed, but Mr. McKenzie was very proud of his students.

“All the boys did things that surprised me, in a good way,” he said. “Overall it was a great competition with very quality kids.”