The Evanston High School speech and debate team continued its impressive start to the 2024-25 season over the weekend, taking first place in the 3A Sweepstakes category at the Evergreen Classic, hosted by Green River Classic.

Competitors brought home ribbons and trophies in 10 different disciplines, including two first-place finishes.

“Our team’s performance this weekend is a testament to their incredible talent and dedication,” said EHS assistant coach Aimee Cogger. “Their hard work has laid a strong foundation for our program’s future, and I’m so excited to see what they’re capable of achieving as the season progresses.”

Laila Duke had an impressive weekend overall, placing first in novice drama; she also placed fifth in novice duet, along with partner Brooklyn Doyle.

Hunter Wilt also turned in a first-place finish, taking the top spot in novice oral interpretation.

Wil Dalton notched a pair of second-place finishes, placing runner-up in both novice program oral interpretation and novice impromptu.

Josie Anderson placed third in informational speaking, while the team of Randi Mair and Shania Martin also placed third in novice duet.

Varsity members Dakota Simon and Camilla Powell had strong showings in Green River, placing fourth in program oral interpretation and extemporaneous speaking, respectively.

Kaydance Bailey placed fifth in novice program oral interpretation; she also finished sixth in novice drama.

Henry Lester was seventh in congressional debate, while Kymbree Mitchell also finished seventh in novice humor.

The big trophy was saved for the end, as Dakota Simon and Camilla Powell went on stage to accept the first place trophy for the Red Devils and Lady Devils.

“I knew we stood a shot at winning first place, as I was keeping track of points as they were coming in, but it still was a shock to hear it called at the podium,” Cogger said. “It was such a sweet victory, especially for our varsity members, who’ve shown dedication to the team and now they get to reap the rewards. More than that though, it was a great precedent to set with the new kids, that, yeah, Evanston can be and is successful.”