By Colin Williams / Staff Writer

The Missouri Valley College Debate and Forensics Team brought home some hardware, with two members, Tru Naumovitz and Sage Carter, crowned Pi Kappa Delta (PKD) National Champions at the tournament on March 12. Carter also earned first place as a speaker.

Naumovitz discussed what he believed was the key to his team’s success.

“I think we have the best chemistry of any team on campus, and I’ll stand by that,” Naumovitz said during one of their practices.

In addition to the champions, sophomore Sidni Hunter finished superior in persuasive speaking, placing her in the top 10 percent, and took fourth place overall in informative speaking.

Hunter shared what she enjoys most about participating in debate and forensics.

“Overall, it significantly boosts my writing and communication skills,” Hunter said. “But I also enjoy the team dynamic. Many of us have been friends for a long time, so we’re really close.”

She praised the debate coach, David Bowers, highly.

“He’s the best debate coach any team could have,” Hunter said. “He dedicates so much time to our success, both individually and as a team.”

Bowers also shared his thoughts on the team.

“We’re a year older and more experienced,” Bowers said. “Everyone we took to the tournament worked incredibly hard and was diligent in engaging in the competition.”