Facing its toughest competition to date, the Columbia Falls speech and debate team took second among Class A high schools at the Missoula tournament on Dec. 9-10.

The meet included 700 competitors from 21 schools with 31 teams. Stevensville took first for class A schools.

Blake Ladenburg was the top finisher for the Wildcats, taking second in memorized public address.

"This tournament was great experience to help us prepare for the duration and competition at our Class A state tournament at the end of January," coach Tara Norick said. "Missoula was the last tournament for our junior varsity team, as we're making our first round of cuts for the divisional team this week."

Norick said the JV competitors have come a long way in their skills and ability since September. She said she looks forward to seeing them return next year.

Varsity policy debate

16th - Mary Gross and Allison Foust

Novice policy debate

13th - Ada Brooks and Monique Schoech

14th - Colter Norick and Erick Franklund

Memorized public address

2nd - Blake Ladenburg

15th - Olivia Ramstad

Oratory

7th - Natalie Law

Expository

7th - Casey Bauer

15th - Baylee Brinton