Rupp Debate Places Second at National Tournament

Tyler, a Pocatello senior majoring in Global Studies, competed against 100 other entries from 44 universities in his division.  Typical topics ranged from “There has never been a good war or a bad peace” to “The US should better address foreign spies.” He missed the first place honor on a split decision.

The Bengals’ Jordan Reynolds (Blackfoot), a graduating senior in Communication also received recognition as one of the top 30 in the varsity division. Seniors Abbey Vaughn and Alyson Tyler also debated in preliminary rounds, and later served as team researchers in the final rounds. 

“This tournament is our second major success this year on the national stage, but it’s bittersweet.” said Head Coach Sarah Partlow-Lefevre. “We’re so proud of our graduating seniors, but saying goodbye is emotional for the entire team.” 

“These students are really fantastic individuals, and I count it a distinct privilege to have been involved in their mentoring,” said Andy Christensen, the team’s Assistant Director. “We are so incredibly proud of them and their combined efforts. Joseph may have delivered the presentation in the final round, but this particular kind of debate uses arguments from the whole team working as one.”

Idaho State debaters and coaches have worked diligently all season to prepare for this tournament. This year marks ISU’s most competitive performance at the IPDA National Tournament.

The Rupp Debate program is supported by the ISU Department of Communication, Media, and Persuasion, the ASISU, and the College of Arts and Letters.