Speaking about Debates

By: Miriam Arias

March 13th, 2017

Phoenix High school has always been a school open for students to express who they really are. Speech and debate directed by our very own Clint Roderick is one of the amazing clubs this school has to offer. Speech and Debate is a club that gets people to start thinking deeply about the world around them and their place in it, where they stand in today’s society. It is an opportunity for the students to freely and openly exchange ideas from the many perspectives that exist. One great thing about this club is that if those who want to join but sadly don’t have the time after school they can take it as a class and add it to their schedule.  As said by a member of the club, Yasmin Conchas “ this is an intellectual sport, it pushes me out of my comfort zone. Even if I don’t win, with every event, I gain new knowledge and understanding of political philosophical and other important topics. ” this club is a huge learning experience and students wouldn’t regret becoming a part of it.

Those who are in the club do one of three things: Number one; students play the role of Congressmen/Congresswomen and debate problems that go on in our country and future laws that they think will solve problems. Number two; students engage in 1 on 1 or 2 on 2 debates about various topics and issues, really there is no boundries. Finally number three; students give speeches on topics that they are passionate about or interested in.

The students compete in monthly tournaments and competitions. Multiple students place in the top three of their events.Some of those students include; Nicoletta Dinelli (12), Evan Schweikert (12), Noah Thompson (12), Jonah Liden (12), and Aishoo Vallanki (12). The club teaches students the importance of getting their word out there and also how to accept when other students disagree with them. Giving them the opportunity to compete teaches them how to persuade their audience to agree with their point.

This club isn’t only so great because of the variety of options it has, for every great team there is a coach. Mr. Roderick has been coaching the speech and debate team for 6 years now and looks like he doesn’t plan on giving that up anytime soon.

For those incoming freshmen or just students in general that plan on joining the club, they meet in Mr. Roderick’s room every Monday during lunch. As said by Mr. Roderick if you plan on joining the club don’t forget to “KEEP AN OPEN MIND!”

Be the first to comment on "Speaking about Debates"

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published.


*