Recently, the Debate team at Olympia High School has received the highest level of recognition given by the National Speech & Debate Association: the Leading Chapter Award. This is a prestigious prize that few can obtain, despite the considerable number of candidates. This year, Olympia was part of the 107 chosen to earn it. This significant achievement was possible due to the hard work and dedication of both the team members, and their coach, Mrs. Amy Hirten.
Since last year, the various events participants (Congress, Speech, Lincoln-Douglas, and Public Forum) have been winning multiple trophies at competitions big and small, showcasing their abilities individually and collectively in the debate chambers. For the 2024-2025 season, this is clearly reflected by their current standings, with the whole team placing 3rd overall during the first NFCL competition held at home, and more recently, 1st on Saturday the 19th at the second NFCL at Horizon High School. Both Novice and Varsity members shined in their individual categories, with Sydney Gass, Krystal Cao and Angelina Sieni placing 3rd, 5th and 6th respectively for Congress. Evan Fernando, Sam Puentes, Ignacio Perez-Aliga, Amira Martin and Erin Tomeu placing 4th, 3rd, 2nd and 1st for Speech. Lucas Niemas, Krishiv Armani, Arman Hunanyan and Abid Panahie at 6th, 3rd, 2nd and 1st place for Lincoln-Douglas. With Ally Williams and Eldin Senatus both placing 1st for Public Forum.
In regards to the recognition, the team captains expressed their pride and optimistic thoughts about the future of Debate at Olympia:
“Debate for me represents the American Dream. Getting this recognition made me realize that we are great at what we do. I hope that more students get to join so they develop public speaking skills like I did. I really love the fact that we develop integrity in a club setting,” senior Evan Fernando, captain of the Speech Team added.
“It took us in a positive direction and strengthened our reputation. Our drive and determination were acknowledged, which I am grateful for. We are a very tight-knit [group], and seeing what we can achieve through our combined creativity feels rewarding. Debate definitely built my discipline and dedication, and so I hope to keep persevering while inspiring others,” sophomore Shaylan Patel, captain of the Public Forum event stated.
“To me, it was almost a shock, and showed me that anything is possible through hard work. At first, I joined the team since many of my friends were part of it, but I felt really welcomed by the older members, and it soon enough became something that mattered to me,” said sophomore Krishaan Parikh, a Public Forum team member.
Diligence, patience and endurance, all values demonstrated by the Debate Team at Olympia High School, whose efforts paid off in the end. The future looks bright with many more wins to look out for as they strive to inspire those around them and express themselves.
Congrats once again, to the Debate Team and Mrs. Hirten, and have a great debate season!
