Upper School Debate Round Up

On Saturday, September 23rd, 6 freshman debaters attended a novice scrimmage at Greenwich HS to compete in the CDA (Connecticut Debate Association) for the first time. Debaters receive the motion and packet of materials the morning of the tournament so no prior preparation was required. Kiri Fitzpatrick, Ishaan Ratliff, Audrey Pizzolato, Lily Napach, Arav Misra, and Alex Goldman squared off against a field of over 70 teams from a dozen Connecticut schools on the motion: "Every citizen should complete one year of national service."

 

Despite never having competed in the format, at the conclusion of two rounds, Kiri and Ishaan were the top ranked team in the scrimmage while Lily and Audrey earned 4th place out of 77 teams. Lily tied for top speaker and Kiri was the 4th ranked speaker out of over 140 individual debaters.

British Parliamentary Debaters Visit the Hilltop
On Tuesday, September 26th, Becki Howarth and Richard Hunter, two British Parliamentary debaters touring the country and sponsored by the English Speaking Union of New York, visited the Hilltop to do a demonstration for US debaters. Becki and Richard made presentations in both sections of the debate minor, showing their skills and giving advice on how to prep for impromptu topics in as short as 15 minutes. In the past year, Hackley has added Parliamentary debate to its offerings in the US.

There are three exciting upcoming debate events for US debaters to get involved with – even if students are not enrolled in the minor, they can participate. Contact Mr. Fitzpatrick or Mr. Gilbert for details!

Friday, October 6th @ Horace Mann (4PM – 9PM) – this is the APDA Parliamentary debate style with impromptu motions and no prep required. Ideal for novices and students new to debating. Two person teams will participate in a modified debate scrimmage. Register ASAP.
E-mail Mr. Fitzpatrick if interested.

Friday and Saturday October 13th & 14th @ Bronx Science – the Big Bronx Public Forum tournament is held at Bronx Science and is a major PF tournament of the season. We are sending most of our Varsity debaters to this event.

Saturday, October 14th in Stamford CT – the first CDA tournament of the season. Open to all novice and experienced debaters who wish to compete in a tournament with the format described above. We can take multiple 2-person teams. The deadline for registration is Friday, October 6th.
E-mail Mr. Fitzpatrick if interested.