BY JOE BLASDEL
Adviser of the speech and debate team
In the last two weekends, the McKendree University Speech and Debate team took home 18 awards, including two team sweepstakes awards at the Missouri’s state tournament.
“This team has worked hard throughout the year, and our late season success is a testament to that work,” said Joe Blasdel. “This team has both the ability and discipline to put together some excellent nationals performances.”
15 colleges and universities, including Rice University, the University of Missouri and Purdue University, attended Loyola University’s National Warmup on Feb. 12-14. Representing McKendree was senior Rodney McBride and sophomores Alex Baldwin, Adam Kaul and Gage Simmons. Kaul and McBride posted a 5-3 record, finishing as double-octofinalists. Ba...