The B-CC Debate team has enjoyed a successful season so far with a record of 29-21, making it the second-ranked debate team in MCPS. The team’s most recent competition took place on Oct. 25. They debated whether the US should substantially increase its military presence in the Arctic.
Maria Sokolowski, senior Co-Captain, won both of her rounds at the recent competition. “The team did really great. I think we all worked together really well this month and a lot of the new students seem to be adjusting well to everything,“ Sokolowski said.
Sokolowski’s debate partner and Co-Captain, Ella Morton, described the team’s preparation for competitions. “We begin with a lot of general research on the topic – understanding important big ideas as well as general contentions that could be run on each side. We work a lot with other pairs to flesh out arguments and decide which ones are the strongest,” said Morton.
In preparation for its upcoming debate, Mr. Gallagher, the debate team’s sponsor, explained that students have been thoroughly researching the topic and participating in discussions during their practice sessions, which take place once a week during lunch. Sokolowski said, “I spend about 3 hours each week researching for my debates.”
Sokolowski also mentioned that despite her initial doubts about joining Debate, being on the team has positively impacted her life. “I was very shy and not that into public speaking, but then once I joined, I really liked it and it helped me come out of my shell.” Morton said, “I also think debate has been great for my writing and public speaking. I understand how to construct a very persuasive argument and back it up despite what other people throw at it.”
The B-CC Debate team has its next competition on Nov. 15, when they will argue whether the US government should forgive all federal student loan debts. Good luck Barons!
