The Sterling College Debate Team brought home nine nutcracker trophies to mark their sweepstakes win at Cameron University’s Christmas Classic Swing, where Gage Brookman of Hutchinson, Kansas, was named tournament champion and third best speaker in Lincoln-Douglas debate as well as finishing in ninth place with his partner Bryce Harner in varsity parliamentary debate. Harner of Hutchinson, Kansas, also placed fifth in Lincoln-Douglas debate, and Elijah Keller and Wesley Lowrey finished fifth in novice parliamentary debate to help secure the tournament win.

“The Christmas Classic Swing is always a fun tournament for our students to participate in. Gage had a phenomenal run and not only finished undefeated, but finished with unanimous votes every time. The team has really rallied around. We are excited to take a short break and start competing again at the Gorlock Gala at Webster University,” said Ken Troyer, debate and forensics coach.

Keller of Sterling, Kansas, and Lowrey of Topeka, Kansas, finished fifth in novice parliamentary debate; Lowrey was named third best speaker.

Dara Quastad of Inman, Kansas, competed in persuasive speaking, advancing to the finals where she finished sixth place and was named top novice persuasive speaker at the tournament.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.