The Great Bend High School debate team was crowned Champions at the Regional Tournament hosted in Great Bend on Saturday, Dec. 21. Their hard-fought victory highlights a season of growth, resilience, and outstanding performances. This year marks the fourth consecutive trip to the state tournament for Great Bend.
The Panthers were 5A Regional Runner-Ups in 2023 and 2022. This is the first time that GBHS has claimed a 5A Regional Championship since 2021.
Great Bend 's Regional Champion team consisted of Seniors Darcy Feist, Reese King, Steven Guillory and Junior, Zachary Hart. Juniors Ellie Damm and Rhys Froetschner were alternates.
"Coaching this remarkable group of debaters has been an unforgettable experience," Heath shared. "Watching their belief in themselves and their abilities grow throughout their high school career has been truly inspiring.”
The victory was a true team effort. It was made possible not just by those competing, but also by the students who contributed through research, practice support, and tournament preparation. According to GBHS debate coach, Kim Heath, “This Regional Championship highlights what it means to be part of a team. Debate eliminates fears of public speaking, and sharpens oral and written skills. But more than that it empowers them to lead and take control of the direction of their own learning.” She continued, “My students have discovered and developed skills that will benefit them for a lifetime."
The Great Bend High School Debate program will compete in the 2025 Kansas State High School Activities Association Class 5A 4-Speaker Debate Tournament in Garden City on Friday, Jan. 17 and Saturday, Jan. 18.
Great Bend will compete against defending state champions Blue Valley Southwest, as well as Hutchinson, Hays, Sumner Academy, St. James Academy, DeSoto, Valley Center and Bishop Carroll.
In addition to excelling in the 4-speaker tournament, the Panthers have qualified three additional teams for the state 2-speaker tournament, which will also be held in Garden City in January. Senior Analeah Ochs will partner with Junior Jordan Ochs, while sophomores Hunter McClanahan, Kyra Lewis, Parker Coleman, and Kendra Scheideman will form the other two teams.