Bigfork High School Speech and Debate placed fourth at the Class B-C state speech and debate tournament in Three Forks on Jan. 25-26.

Loyola won the state title, followed by runner-up Three Forks. Manhattan placed third.

“The competition was great, and our kids were doing very well through the tournament; only four didn’t reach semis or finals, Bigfork Head Coach Charlie Appleby said. “We didn’t finish as strong as we have in past years, and this is only the second year that Bigfork hasn’t brought home at least one [individual] state champion.

“So while I’m super proud of the team and believe we had a great season, we are still a little sad we couldn’t have placed better at state,” Appleby said.

In looking to next season, the Bigfork team will lose seven seniors who are graduating, but Appleby is looking to recruit and “be back in the top three,” at state.

“Bigfork will be bidding to host the state tournament, which is super exciting,” he said.

Following are Bigfork’s individual results.

Informative Speaking

4. Anya Young

Memorized Public Address

4. Maya Hartig

Original Oratory

4. Liz Hyde

Policy Debate

4. Anton Young and Elyse Pendlay

Impromptu Speaking

5. Ben Keller

Extemporaneous Speaking

6. Kristen Hutz

8. Cole Hider