The University forensics team took the long awaited title of Ohio state champions for the first time since 1971, a 35 year drought.

Seven University students competed this weekend in the Varsity State Forensics Tournament against forensics teams from Cedarville University, Ohio State, Ohio University, Muskingum College and the University of Cincinnatti.

They also placed fourth in the debate category and took 21 individual awards.

The state title combines scores taken from the Novice State Tournament, in which BG took second place, and from the Varsity State Tournament held this weekend.

The University forensics program is a competitive team offered through the department of Theatre and Film to undergraduate students in good academic standing.

The forensics team and Pi Kappa Delta forensics honor society rank among the oldest student organizations on campus.