Inaugural SGS Debate Tournament Draws West Coast Elite Teams

In October, the Saint George’s debate program earned the rare opportunity to host a University of Kentucky Tournament of Champions (TOC) policy debate “bid tournament.”  In policy debate, TOC bid status is the holy grail of a successful tournament and program.  Bid tournaments routinely draw competitors from across the nation.  Gonzaga University hosts a bid tournament, as does the Univ. of California at Berkeley.

Last weekend marked the inaugural SGS tournament, which drew 50 of the most competitive debaters from up and down the West Coast.  Schools in attendance included Damien High School (Los Angeles), Silver Creek High School (East Palo Alto), and several of the perennial contenders from Oregon and Washington.  The debate program also raised money to make the tournament affordable to Urban Debate Leagues around the nation.  Next year promises an even more competitive field.  See a Photo Gallery of our own Saint George's debaters and speakers competing at the tournament.

Many thanks to the parents who helped feed judges and competitors, to the alumni who judged and critiqued rounds, and to the debaters who kept the tournament running smoothly.  Special thanks, also, to the generous tournament donors, including Brewer Law Firm, Twyford Law Office, and Anonymous.  Their donations helped make one of the more competitive policy debate tournaments in the nation affordable for everyone.  Go Dragons!