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New Members or Visitors Information Page
The purpose of the team is to allow students the opportunity to express themselves in a variety of ways. Through debate, students gain self-esteem, conquer the fear of public speaking, and have fun!
There is an event for everybody in debate. If you are funny perhaps humorous interpretation is the best event for you. If you are serious and like the news then extemporaneous speaking may fit you best.
The only qualifications are that a student be a member of Pine View High School and be willing to commit the time necessary to attend tournaments. However, students are allowed to decide for themselves how much time they wish to commit.
The main reasons students join are to gain skills, make new friends, compete nationally, or enhance their college application.
A typical debate season begins with a short period where the only event offered at tournaments is congress. The reason for this is that early in the year the State Congress tournament is held in November which determines who from our district goes to nationals. For other events, the national qualifying tournament is held much later in March. All members of the debate team participate in these events as a warm-up for the season.
For those that do not consider Congress their primary event the season really begins with the Blue Key tournament in Gainseville at the University of Florida. Here, all events are offered at this regional tournament which traditionally is the most enjoyable tournament of the year. For any member, the first Blue Key is always a "special" experience. After Blue Key new members usually decide whether or not they wish to stay in debate.
The season then continues on with various all-event tournaments in December, January, and February in preparation for the two nationally qualifying tournaments held in March. After March the season essentially ends except for the national qualifiers who get to compete in late May or early June.
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