Speech and Debate Team Talks Its Way to Victory

SYLVIA WINSTON
Staff Writer

Over the past decades, AHS has had success in various areas. This year, the Speech and Debate (S&D) team has brought acknowledgement to AHS after seizing first place sweepstakes at their recent Spring Varsity tournament for the first time in addition to successes at other tournaments.

“The three first place sweepstakes trophies won by the team […] thus far have surpassed our previous successes. As for the National Forensic League, the team keeps adding seals from competing, winning at tournaments and moving up the national ladder,” coach Kevin Tong said.

Many members recognize the benefits of being in a program like S&D.

“[S&D] has helped me with public speaking and [thinking] on the spot. It has also helped me improve my diction and perceive things on a more analytical level,” freshman Sharleen Mock said.

The team is among the top 30 S&D programs nation-wide, bringing pride to its coach.

“I feel very proud of the team. Many of the members have done a great job working on speeches and debate cases and dedicated their time to practicing and competing,” Tong said.

S&D members also feel satisfaction when they see their hard work come to fruition at tournaments and in day-to-day life.
“It is a privilege to be part of this program and it has helped me gain self-confidence. I no longer fear expressing my own opinion,” sophomore Matthew Chan said.

However, the team does not run on its own. It has four senior captains who strive to end this year with a big win and prepare the path for incoming members.

“I’m very proud of this year’s team, and it’s an honor to be able to help lead the team this year. My responsibilities as captain range from arranging practices to making sure everything goes smoothly with our team at tournaments,” captain Kimberly Phan said.

Hours of rehearsal and memorization are key to this team’s success.

“[Practices] can be stressful because there’s a lot to manage and teach,” captain Henry Chen said.

According to sophomore Felice Gonzales, S&D has become her second home. Not only has she gained experience in public speaking and competition, but she also gained a family.

“I [never dwell] on my achievements. I always seek for more. I tend to draw inspiration from others,” Gonzales said.