Juniors Paari Palani and David Wise took home first place medals from the UIL State Debate Competition March 16, making them this year’s 5A CX Debate State Champions. In addition to placing first, Palani also received a speaker award and the juniors were undefeated in the preliminary rounds.

“Overall it was an exciting experience, and it was fun to compete against some pretty good teams,” Palani said. “Although I was a little nervous, our performance last year (fifth place) made me hopeful that we would do well this year.”

The juniors did especially well considering their event, policy debate, is one of the ‘toughest, most complicated events in competitive debate,’ according to Jonathan Albor and Maribeth Harlow’s Introduction to UIL Speech and Debate. This year’s topic focused on fiscal redistribution. 

“The event essentially operates as a two vs two debate, where the terms of the debate are centered around a topic chosen at the beginning of the year,” Wise said. “You can debate either side (affirmative or negative), but your side is chosen before the round.”

Both competitors have been participating in debate since their freshman year and show much appreciation for the activity. 

“Debate is a great activity and I would recommend everyone to try it out because it really changes the way you think and the way that you are able to convey your thoughts to others,” Palani said. 

In addition to first place medals, Palani and Wise’s teacher, Mrs. Morrison Tuason, offers her praise for their outstanding performance. 

“Paari and David have shown tremendous growth over the past year,” Tuason said. “Their desire for debate wins has surpassed their desire for infamy, and the Austin win proved that they are at the top of their game!”