HS debate team hits the road

At Samford University's Bishop Guild Debates, Ophelia Cherry-Pulay '25 earned third place speaker. The debaters who attended the competition were the first debate team members to travel for competition in nearly three years. Continue reading for a full recap.
By Bill Wilson, Debate Coach

The debate team took its first bus trip in almost three years on Friday, January 13 en route to Birmingham, Alabama where University School of Nashville students competed against top programs from across the Southeast in Samford University's Bishop Guild Debates.

In the varsity division, Ophelia Cherry-Pulay '25 and Ellie Rothman '25 finished with a 3-3 record including a win over Pace Academy of Georgia, and two wins over Montgomery Bell Academy. The pair had a close first round against the eventual champions from Decatur High School in Georgia as well. Ophelia was recognized as the third overall speaker in open competition. Meanwhile, Alexander Clinton '24 and Eleanor Molvig '25 finished 1-5 with a win over the Carrollton Sacred Heart School of Florida.

In the novice division, Claire Gilliam '24 and Alondra Martinez Ordaz '26 finished with a 3-3 record. Claire won the ninth place speaker award among first year participants.
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