Top young debater: ‘It builds your confidence and broadens your opinion’

Make text smaller Make text larger

Young debater Megan Sutcliffe can pretty much argue her way out of any situation.

The Bermuda High School student was recently named champion in the Bermuda Debate Society’s 22nd Annual National Debate Tournament.

She beat out the competition by doing thorough research and properly articulating herself on a variety of topics, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup a subject she previously knew nothing about.

Her school also placed first overall thanks also to help from debaters Hailey Quig and Ashleigh Tomkins.

One of the only places her expert skills don’t seem to work is at home. “Debating never works at home because parenting reasoning is ‘I am right’,” she said with a laugh.

The Year Eight student began debating four years ago when she was invited to attend an after school debate programme organised by national coach Gladstone Thompson.

“I just found it really interesting. It was really fun getting going and talking about things you wouldn’t normally think about.”

Since then she said it has helped her build confidence and improved her public speaking abilities. It has also shaped her plans for a future career path.

“I want to be a lawyer so I think it really helps that you learn how to argue nicely.

“I decided about two years ago because I loved debating so much. I like going up and just saying this is how it is. I do not mind what their argument is, I always believe I can prove I am right.”

Megan, 12, and her other teammates practised for about two or three months in preparation of the National Debate Tournament.

They went up against four middle schools, including Mount Saint Agnes, Saltus, Sandys and TN Tatem.

She said she was surprised to learn she had placed first overall, especially considering the quality of the other competitors.

Hailey Quig placed third overall for her individual score; while the BHS Middle School coach, Melissa Brough, earned the Coach’s Cup for her dedication in preparing the team.

“I was sort of in shock when I found out I won because I know someone, William Campbell; he came forth [this year] and the irony is he came first last year and I came fourth. And I thought I am not going to get a prize he is so much better.”

In the competition and practice, debaters are taught to argue both sides of an issue.

Megan said it was often challenging to argue a stance that you personally don’t believe in for instance in the case of organ trafficking.

She said it’s best to do more “thorough research” and use data and statistics, rather than your own opinion.

She also highly recommends that other young people look into debating.

“Hands down, because it’s one of the most awesome things I have ever done. It definitely helps with English and with public speaking.

“When I started I was deathly afraid of crowds and now I am happy to go out and say ‘listen to me’. It definitely builds your confidence and broadens your opinion and makes you more up-to-date with the news.

“Now when I am in the car I am really listening to the radio when the news comes on. It’s really an amazing thing.”

Make text smaller Make text larger

Related Stories

Take Our Poll