Last weekend Fossil Ridge High School, sophomore Grace Feng took first place out of nearly 100 students from across Northern Colorado. Grace Feng is the first student from FRHS to ever qualify and will be representing FRHS as well as Northern Colorado at the High School National Tournament in June.

Feng is one the newest members of the debate and speech team. She was shocked to hear her name as one of the nine qualifying students, and the only one from FRHS. “I felt I gave a very compelling argument, although when they announced my named I really wasn’t expecting it,” Feng said.

This is Feng’s first year on the debate team, so qualifying out of a 100 students in congress wasn’t only shocking for Feng and her teammates, but also for Mrs. Kochis, her coach. “Grace is a very talented young lady, she puts forth a great effort and her hard work has definitely paid off,” Kochis said.

This was FRHS’ first time attending this event. Kochis wanted the team to participate to get a feel for what it’s like preforming in front of such a competitive and large group of people. “This was however the first time Fossil’s debate team has qualified for nationals,” Kochis said “I guess there is a first for everything.”

The High School National Tournament will take place June 15-20. To attend to this tournament students must place among the top competitors at one of the District Tournaments.  The qualifiers compete in this event for more than $200,000 in college scholarships. The upcoming events are scheduled for Overland Park, Kansas and Dallas, Texas. The final rounds will be judged by blue ribbon panels which includes CEO’s, former Cabinet members, stage and screen celebrities, acclaimed community members, and sponsors.