Newsroom

CORVALLIS, Ore. - Oregon State University's forensics team finished with strong results, including several individual wins, in the recent 80th annual Mahaffey Memorial Tournament at Linfield College.

The tournament featured nearly 20 schools from throughout the United States, from Suffolk University in Boston, Mass., to Carroll College in Helena, Mont., to Humboldt State University in Arcata, Calif.

"It is nice to see seasoned veterans and newcomers do well at such a competitive tournament," said Mark Porrovecchio, director of the team. "The simple fact is that these wins are the result of the entire team supporting each other."

Senior Daniel Meiwes of Corvallis was a quarter-finalist in open debate. Meiwes also competed in open impromptu speaking. Junior Kyle Bidwell of Sumner, Wash., was a quarterfinalist in open debate and the fifth best speaker. Bidwell also competed in oral interpretation, impromptu speaking, and extemporaneous speaking. Freshman Taylor Nelson of Eugene, Ore., took second place in novice debate and was named fourth best speaker. Nelson also competed in junior impromptu speaking.

The travel squad was rounded out by Loni Sturm of Albany, Dalicia Fennell of Sutherlin, Cory Harris of Hillsboro, and Blane Higa of Pearl City, Hawaii. The team was coached by graduate assistants Morgan Mansker, of Sisters, Ore., and Forest Ledbetter of Sheridan, Ore.

Celebrating its 118th season, OSU Forensics is one of the oldest clubs on campus. The team, open to all students in good academic standing regardless of experience or academic background, has a full slate of tournaments and activities planned for the 2010-11 season. Those interested in becoming more involved with the club can contact Porrovecchio at mark.porrovecchio@oregonstate.edu