UVIC Novice Debate

13 October 2020Jim Ganley

In a classic K-shaped recovery pattern, as professional sports and other team events try to hang on to their competitive seasons, the digital world of debate has reached a fever pitch.

UVIC hosts a novice tournament each October, and, this year, our students could debate from here on campus, in the multi-purpose rooms of the Foote Centre, or, if visiting family or friends over the weekend, at home, in front of their laptops.

Teams from all over the Island tuned in from wherever they wanted, which pleased environmentalists and Thanksgiving celebrators alike. Tables, chairs and laptops littered all around the room is a common sight in debates, but, in this digital format, more than two teams were in a room, as the only reason to separate would be the noise from each speaker affecting others.

Turning microphones off and on again proved challenging but vital, as some students choose to make food and even use the bathroom whilst competing in rounds. At the end of the eight hours and four rounds, our Novice team of Grade 8s Julia D ’24 and Grace S ‘24 placed first in their division, and Ally Dick, Alex ’21 placed third in hers.

Where Students Choose To Be