MHS Debate Competes in Southern CA League Tournament

On Friday night, the Novice Debate Team featured freshman Sam Tong, who earned a 3-1 record in Lincoln Douglas Debate while freshmen James Zhao and Jerry Liu went 2-2 in Public Forum Debate. Maranatha Speech and Debate Advisor Mr. Pat Mesisca ‘92 said, “We have a solid nucleus of beginning Speech and Debate students, but without a doubt the highlight of my evening was seeing James and Jerry compete and win two rounds debating in English as their second language.”  

On Saturday, the Varsity Debate Team competed at East Los Angeles College. Seniors Jake Anderson and Hunter McCoy earned a trophy in Public Forum while going undefeated in five rounds of debate. Freshman Sam Tong earned the 4th place trophy in Lincoln Douglas style debate.  

Maranatha shined on Saturday with vast improvements from the Fall Debate Tournaments. Although only the top 8 finalists earn trophies, the following results demonstrate that the Maranatha Debate Team will be a strong force in the future.

 

Mr. Mesisca said, “Of all of my years coaching Speech and Debate, this is the most improved team I have ever coached when I compare Fall tournament results to Spring tournament results in the same school year. To finish in the ‘Top 15’ means that the debaters must have a 3-1 record or better. To have five debate entries finish with 3-1 or better records just shows the passion and hard work these students put forth in their preparation.”