05/21/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2025
Rossville, Indiana
Rossville Speech Duo Headed to Nationals for First Time in Over 25 Years
Rossville, IN – The Stinger Speech Team has officially secured its place on the national stage for the first time in more than two decades. After being named second alternates at the March national-qualifying tournament, Rossville juniors Lillian Black and Audrey Thompson have now been called up to compete at the 2025 National Speech & Debate Tournament, taking place June 15–20 in Des Moines, Iowa.
The unexpected but thrilling news marks a historic milestone for the Rossville program, which hasn’t sent a student to nationals since the 1990s.
“Lillian and I joked around about how cool it would be to qualify for nationals, then we just laughed it off,” said Thompson. “To say I am shocked is an understatement. This is a tremendous honor.”
Black and Thompson compete in Duo Interpretation, a category that demands both emotional range and razor-sharp timing. The pair advanced to finals at the district tournament in March, placing just shy of automatic qualification—until now.
“I am really proud of both of these girls,” said Coach Jason Newhouser. “They work hard, not only for speech, but also in theatre, in school, at their part-time jobs, and in other extracurricular activities. Speech and Debate Nationals is an amazing tournament. At a previous school, I was fortunate to qualify students three years in a row. It’s awesome to bring this level of competition to Rossville, too.”
With the honor of competing comes the challenge of funding the trip. The team is seeking community support to help cover the $3,000 needed for travel, lodging, and tournament registration.
“If you’d like to help send the Stinger Speech Team to Nationals, please reach out,” said Newhouser. “Every little bit helps. We really appreciate this community and their support.”
Those interested in donating can contact Coach Jason Newhouser at [email protected]. Contributions of any size are appreciated and will help make this historic opportunity a reality for these students. Checks should be made payable to RCSD.
About the National Speech and Debate Association:
Founded in 1925, the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) is the largest interscholastic speech and debate organization in the world. The NSDA promotes communication, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making through competitive speech and debate. The National Tournament is the pinnacle of high school competition, bringing together thousands of the best students from across the country. For more information about the National Tournament, visit: https://www.speechanddebate.org/national-tournament-2025
About the Stinger Speech Team:
Coached by Hall of Fame and Two-Diamond Coach Jason Newhouser, the Stinger Speech Team boasts a roster of nearly 40 students in grades 9–12. They compete across the state of Indiana and host their own annual tournament. The team continues to grow and thrive, promoting excellence in public speaking, performance, and leadership. Follow the team on Facebook: facebook.com/Rossville4n6
About Rossville Schools:
Rossville Middle/High School, located in rural Clinton County, Indiana, serves students in grades 6 through 12. With a commitment to academic achievement, creative expression, and community engagement, Rossville Schools provide a variety of extracurricular offerings, including award-winning fine arts, athletics, academic teams, and agricultural programs. "At Rossville Schools, we're ALL IN: Achieve, Lead, Learn, and INspire." For more information about Rossville Schools, visit: rossvilleschools.org
A page dedicated to Rossville Speech and Theatre
