This year, the St. Paul’s debate team has emerged as a formidable force, packed with shrewdness, persuasion, and a keen sense of humour! Demonstrating high levels of success at both provincial and national tournaments, they have proven to be among the best in Canada. A few key tournaments have been the driver of their success this year – those being the Angus Reid Debate Tournament, Canadian British Parliamentary Asper Cup Debating Nationals, and Rupert’s Land Public Speaking and Debate Provincials. 

The first sign of success was seen at the 23^rd Annual Angus Reid Debate Tournament. This tournament is the equivalent of provincials for British Parliamentary debate and is also a qualifier for nationals. After three rounds of debate at St. Paul’s High School, the results were in, and we did not disappoint. Evan Peters ‘25 and Nazar Bobelyak ’25 placed first overall, becoming provincial champions! Isaac Lavitt ’25 and Landon Pinette ‘26 placed ninth overall. These debaters along with others – Nathan Poklar ’24, Sean Ehmann ’24, Darius Martin ’24, and Maksim Thomas ’25 – would qualify for the Canadian British Parliamentary Debating Nationals. 

The annual Canadian British Parliamentary Asper Cup Debating National Tournament was held in Winnipeg this year. Spanning three days at three different schools, this exciting tournament is a showcase of intellectual prowess and the unique format of British Parliamentary Debate. After six rounds spanning two days, it was time to find out the results and more importantly, who would be advancing to the quarter finals. After anxiously waiting, we learned that Evan Peters and Nazar Bobelyak had placed in the top sixteen teams in Canada and would be advancing to the quarterfinals! This came after placing first in three of their six debates. However, after a very well-spoken quarter final round and a tough judging call, Evan and Nazar had lost and would not be advancing any further. They did, however, get a shiny plaque for their efforts. 

Only a few weeks later, the debate team took on their final tournament of the calendar year – the Rupert’s Land Debate and Public Speaking Tournament. In addition to debate, students had the option of either writing a persuasive speech or partaking in the impromptu speaking category. All in all, success at this tournament was massive. St Paul’s won the award for best school at the tournament with a multitude of our students winning medals in their respective categories. Defying all odds, students Evan Peters ’25 and Baljot Rai ’24 have qualified for the National Public Speaking Championships which will be hosted in February. Best of luck to them and congratulations to all the students that have partaken is one or more of these events this year!

Provided with delicious snacks, an appetite for logic, and a desire to make friends from across the country, the St. Paul’s debate team continues to dominate on both the provincial and national level. This year’s debate and public speaking success will surely be remembered for years to come.