Fullerton College Speech and Debate Team Starts Strong in Season Openers
The Fullerton College Speech and Debate Team participated in a full slate of season opener tournaments taking place in October and buzzed into action at four competitive tournaments, making quite an impact.
At the Steve Hunt Classic, hosted by Lewis & Clark College, Daniel Solares soared into the tournament championship and finished a commendable second place finish, showcasing his skills as a returning debater. Meanwhile, at the Crossman Invitational hosted by El Camino College four students competed in their first tournament ever in their academic career.
Adding to the team’s success, Joel Joellson, Fullerton College sophomore, emerged as an up-and-coming star by landing a third place speaker award at the Marshall University Tournament while Enzo Mederos, a Fullerton College newcomer, finished strong as fifth place speaker at the University of North Texas DeMougeot Debate Tournament.
“These early triumphs set the stage for a season filled with promise and potential,” said Speech and Debate coach and professor Jeffery Samano.
“The team’s strength lies in its diversity, with 18 students contributing their unique perspectives and insights to debates covering critical topics like US nuclear policy and talented individuals have already grabbed victories against formidable opponents, including prestigious institutions like Texas Tech, Illinois State, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln,” Samano said.
Looking ahead to November, the Fullerton College Speech and Debate Team is poised for even greater challenges and achievements. The team has been invited by the Nixon Library to engage in a compelling foreign policy debate against the California State University Debate Team on Nov. 9, a testament to the team’s growing reputation.
Additionally, the team is thrilled to host an on-campus debate tournament on Nov. 11, focusing on the crucial topic of the value of the US nuclear umbrella. This tournament is open to all Fullerton College students who are eager to test their debating prowess. Students interested in participating are encouraged to join the Speech & Debate Club, which convenes every Wednesday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Building 2400, Room 108.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to engage in lively discussions, refine their debate skills, and be part of an inspiring community of thinkers,” said Samano. “The Fullerton College Speech and Debate Team’s journey has only just begun, and their achievements in these early tournaments foreshadow a season filled with excellence and success.”
