Debate team argues way to national meets

The University’s debate team is off to a slow start this semester, but still working toward an invitation to a prestigious national tournament.

The three-member team competed at Webster University in St. Louis, Mo. on Jan. 30 - Feb. 1 and at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, Calif. on Feb. 6-8.

Dr. Charles Walts, assistant speech professor and debate director, said the team performed well for their first time competing on a national level.

Walts said the events consist of six rounds in which students receive a topic, pick a side and have 20 minutes to prepare an argument.

He said the team won two of the six rounds at Webster University and tied, winning three rounds, at Point Loma Nazarene University.

The dynamic of the events, which typically last from Friday to Sunday, can vary greatly, Walts said.

He said they never know the range of topics or which schools will be present until the day of the event.

Debate topics can range from foreign relations with Israel to the economic stimulus package passed by Congress.

“That’s why the students need to be knowledgeable about things going on in the world,” Walts said.

Preparation for the competitions consists of two weekly meetings leading up to the trip and a study session on Saturday morning during the trip, he said.

Walts said the debate team plans to take two more trips to Willamette University in Salem, Ore. and the National Parliamentary Debate Association event in Stockton, Calif.

Walts said he is proud of the effort the team is giving and hopes their hard work is rewarded by an invitation to the National Parliamentary Tournament of Excellence, an exclusive competition for the best debate teams in the nation.

Walts said he won this tournament during his first year as debate coach for William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo.

He said teams receive invitations based on their ranking, which is determined by points earned for winning rounds on the debate circuit.

Walts said he is grateful for the level of support the University administration provides to the debate team.

“Even though travel expenses are being curtailed, [University officials] made it clear they won’t do anything that would be a detriment to student enrichment,” Walts said.

By Aaron May Staff Writer