PHOENIX, Arizona — The Park City High School Debate Team made a significant impact at the recent national circuit high school debate tournament held at Arizona State University from Thursday to Sunday. A contingent of 24 students, accompanied by parents, teachers, and coaches, traveled to Phoenix to engage in intense debates with over 1,000 students from more than 100 high schools across more than 10 states. The tournament has become a hallmark event in the high school debate calendar, showcasing the talents of young debaters and providing them with a platform to hone their skills. The Park City High School team, known for its rigorous training and dedication, was led by their debate teacher Anna Williams, alongside coaches Mark Parker, Preston Knudson, Cas Mumford, and distinguished alumnus Noam Levinsky. Williams meticulously selected the team members based on their performance and potential, ensuring that only the most prepared students would represent the school. This selection process underscores the competitive nature of the debate team, which has earned a reputation for excellence in both state and national competitions. The tournament was not only a test of skill but also an opportunity for growth. Participants engaged in various debate formats, including Public Forum and Lincoln Douglas, allowing students to explore diverse topics and develop their argumentative techniques. The experience was described as invaluable by many team members, particularly those who did not advance to the elimination rounds but gleaned insights from their performances. Among the standout performers was Lila Gabbay, who excelled in the Informative Speech category. Her ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively set her apart from her peers, earning her a place in the elimination rounds. Additionally, the duo of Shiva Minter and Sophie Dildy made an impressive mark in the Varsity Public Forum category, showcasing their teamwork and strategic debating skills. Sammy Vogel also advanced in the Varsity Lincoln Douglas category, demonstrating his depth of knowledge and reasoning abilities. Maddie Hadar, a sophomore in her second year on the varsity debate circuit, represented Park City in the highly competitive Varsity Public Forum. She presented a compelling argument on the topic, "Resolved: The People’s Republic of China Should Substantially Reduce Its International Extraction of Natural Resources." Balancing her debate commitments with community service, Hadar expressed her views on the tournament, stating, "The tournament was competitive and intense, but our team still managed to pull through with a few people breaking to elimination rounds. Great learning experience from those who didn’t break. Lila, Sammy, along with the partnership of Shiva and Sophie all broke and held their own in elim rounds." The success of the Park City High School Debate Team at the tournament highlights not only their preparedness and skill but also the supportive environment fostered by their coaches and community. The team’s commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by their upcoming schedule; they will soon travel to Timpview High School in Provo for yet another in-state event, continuing to build on their momentum and experience. As they prepare for their next competition, the students reflect on the lessons learned in Phoenix. The challenges faced at the national tournament will undoubtedly contribute to their growth as debaters, helping them refine their arguments and enhance their critical thinking skills. The Park City High School Debate Team’s journey is a testament to the dedication of these young scholars, who are not only competing but also engaging with complex global issues through the art of debate. Looking ahead, the team is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in the competitive debate landscape. Participation in such events is crucial for developing the skills necessary for future academic and professional pursuits. The support from parents and the school community plays a vital role in this journey, providing students with the resources and encouragement needed to excel. The Park City High School Debate Team's recent achievements at the Arizona tournament serve as a reminder of the importance of debate as a tool for education, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students for the challenges of the future.