Immaculate Heart Middle & High School is proud to celebrate the achievements of its High School Speech and Debate teams, with multiple students qualifying for state and national championship competitions.

Under the guidance of HS English Teacher Chris Rock, the Speech Team has earned impressive results throughout their season, with nine members qualifying for the State Championships after competing in a recent tournament in Culver City.

Senior Rihanna Ramos placed 2nd in Dramatic Interpretation, while Sophomore Sasha Patton was crowned Declamation Tournament Champion and placed 4th in Dramatic Interpretation. Seniors Siena Wootton and Echo Scura earned 3rd place in Duo Interpretation, and Juniors Adelaide Pavey and Clementine Adams placed 4th. Other state qualifiers include Sophomore Evie Eddy (5th in Humorous Interpretation), Junior Vida Ettinger (6th in Impromptu), Junior Keisha Hicban (4th in Program Oral Interpretation), Sophomore Chloe Rizk (Finalist in Declamation, 1st alternate for State Championships), and Senior Tulia Temple (Finalist in OPP).

This year also marks a milestone for several first-time state qualifiers, including Sophomore Riley Grace and Freshmen Olivia Senftleben, Carmen Dominguez, Sydney Lewis, and Athena Martinez.
The Debate Team, led by Coach David Dosch, continues to excel in competition, highlighted by standout performances at the recent USC Trojan Invitational, where Senior Emma Sobel advanced to the quarterfinals and earned recognition as the 9th overall speaker.

Additionally, six IH Pandas qualified for the National Debate Coaches Association National Championships: Seniors Nicolette Huff and Emma Sobel, and Juniors Carson Mueller, Audrey Eckert, Camille Johns, and Olivia Amir.

“Seeing our students achieve this success is inspiring,” said Chris Rock. “Their dedication and teamwork exemplify the very best of our school, and we’re thrilled for them to represent Immaculate Heart at the highest levels.”

David Dosch added, “Our team continues to push boundaries with every competition. Their commitment to research, strategy, and persuasive communication demonstrates that they are truly ready to compete on the national stage.”

Immaculate Heart Middle & High School congratulates all of these hard-working students for their accomplishments and wishes them the best at the upcoming state and national competitions.