Colorado Christian University Scores National Debate Win
Colorado Christian University's debate team is quickly moving from an upstart to a dynasty. For the second year in a row, CCU students are bringing home the championship trophy from the National Christian College Forensics Championships.
Due to last year's high finish, CCU found itself in the highest division in this year's tournament, which was held at California Baptist University in Riverside, California. The increased competition was a lot for CCU's program - only in its third year of existence - but it didn't slow the team in the end.
Matthew Erickson and Hudson Jungck won the team debate division with a perfect record throughout the tournament, notching wins over Wheaton, Carson Newman, Biola, Azusa Pacific, Seattle Pacific, and Liberty. Erickson, a sophomore, and Jungck, a freshman, will ensure that the team is competitive for years to come.
Additionally, CCU took home five of the top speaker awards for the entire tournament, and four teams finished in the quarterfinals or above. The school also finished strong in individual speeches, including another win in the Impromptu Speaking category by freshman Cole Brown.
The Colorado Christian University debate program has quickly placed itself on the map for its prowess, and with a host of strong finishes by underclassmen, it should remain a force for years to come. Former team members Matthew Lenell and Caleb Rawson, both graduated, returned to help as on-site coaches.
In 2015, CCU will see whether it can defend its trophy on its home turf. Next year's event will be hosted by Colorado Christian University in March.