Remembering a legendary coach

Although Central Debate has been around for a long time, there is no person who has done more to affect the lives of our students than Jim Sauer. He was a teacher at Central for 44 years (1965-2009), and debate coach for at least 40. 
Mr. Sauer was more than a teacher and coach; he was a beacon of passion, positivity, and inspiration for the Central Debate team and beyond. For 44 remarkable years, Mr. Sauer dedicated himself to shaping young minds and nurturing the potential of countless students at Central High School.
His teaching style was anything but conventional, marked by a genuine belief in the value of individual students. Mr. Sauer's classroom was a place where students were encouraged to explore, discuss, and grow, embodying his deep-rooted philosophy that placed people above all else.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. Sauer's impact extended far and wide. He coached our debate team with unwavering enthusiasm, hosting annual taco nights that became legendary among our members. His commitment to his students was unparalleled, always placing their needs and growth above all else.
Mr. Sauer's magnetic personality and boundless energy left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His legacy lives on not only in our tournament traditions and scholarships but also in the hearts of all those whose lives he touched. He taught us not only the art of debate but also the importance of embracing life with humor, passion, and a genuine love for people.
Mr. Jim Sauer's memory will forever remain a guiding light for the La Crosse Central Debate team. We gather each year to remember Mr. Sauer and the enduring impact on our team and community:

• We host the Jim Sauer Invitational debate tournament every October. This event brings together debate teams from Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest to debate virtually (using the NSDA Classroom video conferencing system) in Cross-Examination, Lincoln-Douglas, and Public Forum debate. 
• Each year, one or more senior debaters at Central High School receive the Jim Sauer Memorial Debate Scholarship. The criteria for the scholarship are as follows: the recipient must be a member of the Debate Team 3-4 yrs; fifteen debate rounds per year minimum; overall win/loss record 55-60%; high personal ethical standards.

“Mr. Sauer might never have known, but the classroom where we gave speeches each day after school became a refuge. His support nourished our fragile psyches. His wardrobe – and the wild strand of hair that seemed to trickle down his forehead – made us laugh. His illegible handwriting inspired us to take typing. His passion for life fueled us. And his willingness to be himself eased our own self-consciousness.”  --Blake Morrison, Central '86 in the La Crosse Tribune