Led by Samantha Primeaux’s state championship in Lincoln-Douglas debate, UIL Academic Team members finished in a sixth-place tie at the state meet held at the University of Texas on May 21-22.

Annnie Albrecht placed third in editorial writing and sixth in headline writing. The current issues and events teams consisting of Braxton Guinn, Marina Hogan, Connor Eyzeguirre, and Chris Barnett placed third. The team is coached by Gina Blankenburg.

Primeaux’s championship, combined with the earlier state championship this spring of Albrecht and Eleanor Kirkscey in cross-examination debate gave the speech team a second-place finish by one point behind Holliday.

Primeaux completed the tournament with a perfect 5-0 record, defeating debaters from White Oak twice, Kingsville, Holliday, and Breckenridge.

The finals round was very close,” said Primeaux, “I felt like the judges could have voted either way, but I’m thankful they voted for me.”

“This is a great finish to a great year,” said UIL Academic Coordinator and speech and debate coach Russell Kirkscey. “I think these students are indicative of the tremendous academic preparation that Blanco ISD provides.”