Gators Shine at Districts: A Strong Finish to the Season

This past weekend marked an exciting and emotional milestone for our Speech and Debate Gators as we wrapped up the final tournament of the season. The Golden Desert District Tournament—our official national qualifier—brought together the very best competitors from across the valley. With only top performers from each school eligible to compete, the stakes were high and the talent was undeniable.Our students rose to the occasion, delivering incredible performances across a wide range of events. Here’s how we did:

Program Oral Interpretation (POI):

Miguel Flores – 4th Place (1st Alternate)

Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking:

Kai Colin – 4th Place (1st Alternate)

International Extemporaneous Speaking:

Carter Vigil – 3rd Place (Qualified)Claire Oseas – 4th Place (1st Alternate)

Original Oratory:

Eloise McCormick – District Champion (Vacated Spot)Yuri Gutierrez – 4th Place (1st Alternate)

Drama:

Eloise McCormick – District Champion (Qualified)

Tigerlily Chandler – 2nd Place (Qualified)

Victoria Mitchell – 3rd Place (1st Alternate)

Lexi Coleman – 6th Place (Vacated Spot)

Humor:

Elijah Tafeaga – 2nd Place (Qualified)

Izzy North – 3rd Place (1st Alternate)

Duo Interpretation:

Liv Michaelson & Lexi Coleman – District Champions (Qualified)

Congressional Debate (House):

As a team, Green Valley earned 2nd Place in Overall Sweepstakes and 2nd Place in Speech Sweepstakes, an incredible achievement that reflects the hard work, dedication, and talent of every competitor.Gators Shine at Districts: A rd Place (1st Alternate)Lexi Coleman – 6th Place (Vacated Spot)

Humor:

Elijah Tafeaga – 2nd Place (Qualified)Izzy North – 3rd Place (1st Alternate)

Duo Interpretation:

Liv Michaelson & Lexi Coleman – District Champions (Qualified)

Congressional Debate (House):

Vivianna Dzarnoski – 7th Place (2nd Alternate)

As a team, Green Valley earned 2nd Place in Overall Sweepstakes and 2nd Place in Speech Sweepstakes, an incredible achievement that reflects the hard work, dedication, and talent of every competitor. A huge congratulations goes out to our national qualifiers, who have officially earned their place on the Wall of Distinction in Room 211. This recognition is a testament not only to their success at districts, but to the countless hours of preparation, practice, and perseverance that brought them here.We are so proud of every single student who competed this season. These Gators truly represent some of the very best Green Valley has to offer. Thank you to everyone who supported the team along the way—coaches, families, and teammates alike.Next stop: Nationals in Richmond, Virginia. Let’s keep the momentum going!