Strong debate and impromptu performances led the Whitefish speech and debate team to its second-straight second place finish in Class A at the state tournament.

Teams from 20 schools met in Laurel over the weekend for the tournament. Columbia Falls took first place with 280 sweepstakes points. Whitefish followed with 126 points and Laurel took third.

The team was lead by Makkie Haller, who earned a state championship in impromptu speaking. Haller also earned eighth place in extemporaneous speaking.

The debate team of Zachary Kasselder and Ian Caltabiano took second in policy debate, and Abby Lowry and Douglas Mercer also finished just behind at fifth in the same category.

Zach Ade grabbed a second place finish in memorized public address and fourth in extemporaneous speaking, and Aidan Reid finished fourth in original oratory.

Head coach Carissa Shupp said bringing home some medals was the perfect way to cap off a strong season for her team.

“We have had a great season and are thrilled to be able to bring the Bulldogs to the state tournament,” Shupp said. “Our kids worked hard this year, and it paid off here. We are grateful to everyone who supported the Whitefish team, and proud to bring home medals in several events.”

Individual results:

Policy Debate: 2. Zachary Kasselder and Ian Caltabiano, 5. Abby Lowry and Douglas Mercer

Impromptu: 1. Makkie Haller, 5. Teigen Tremper

Extemporaneous: 4. Zach Ade, 8. Makkie Haller

Memorized Public Address: 2. Zach Ade

Dramatic Interpretation: 5. Lizzy Olsen, 6. Naya Brigette

Informative: 5. Teigen Tremper, 7. Adia Saurey

Original Oratory: 4. Aidan Reid 6. Grace Benkelman