March 12, 2026, by the Seward Folly Staff

Seward High School DDF Team. Photo by Joel Williams

This year was Seward’s first DDF appearance since 2019. For those unfamiliar, DDF is the academic equivalent of track and field, offering a range of events and debate styles.

Seward fielded two public forum debate teams: Josie Andrews and Claire Anger, and Jonas Moseman and Crystal Maddox. Both teams wrapped up the tournament with strong 3-2 records, though neither advanced to the quarterfinals.

The team also entered two Reader’s Theater performances: “The Penguins of Madagascar” and “Shrek.” The “Shrek” cast took home an impressive 4th place overall.

In Improv Duet Acting, Seward was represented by two teams: Josie Andrews and Claire Anger, and Hazel Dickinson and Isabel Jones. Meanwhile, Jonas Moseman and Axel LaRock competed in Extemporaneous Commentary, with Jonas earning the 6th seed overall and narrowly missing the final round.

Coach Joel Williams praised the team’s determination, saying, “I am very proud of this team for their hard work and dedication to the team throughout the season. I am very excited for next season! (now that we know what we are doing a little bit more).”

For Axel LaRock, the program’s comeback was especially meaningful.

“I am so overjoyed to see this program being brought back to Seward and getting the chance to participate in it. As a little kid, my sister would compete in DDF, and I always dreamed I would be able to as well, and now I can!” he shared.

Seward High School DDF Team in action at the State Meet. Photos by Joel Williams

Claire Anger recalled a memorable moment from the season: “My favorite memory from the season was when I had just gotten done with one round, and Coach Joel said: ‘Your debate started 5 minutes ago.’”

Lyla deCastro said her favorite memory was when the team coordinated to wear Hawaiian shirts together, a moment of unity and fun that captured the team’s spirit.

With their first season back under their belts, the Seward DDF team has set a strong foundation for the future and is already looking forward to next year’s competition.

Seward DDF Team. Photo by Joel Williams