Debate and Forensics Team
Contact person:
Mrs. Mary Peterson, peterson
bishopfoley
org, 248-585-1210
When:
Debate meets on Mondays after school
Where:
The team meets in room 235.
The local competitive season goes from September through March. Competitions are on Wednesday afternoon/evening, usually twice a month. The tournament schedule is set at the beginning of the school year. If teams qualify, they may compete in Catholic Nationals in May. The Forensics Team does not have specific meeting times. The students meet with Mrs. Peterson for coaching on an as needed basis. The competitions are from January through April, and are on Saturday mornings on a schedule set at the beginning of the school year. If students qualify, they may compete in Catholic Nationals in May. Any student may participate, regardless of age or skill level, but students need to commit themselves to preparing for and attending tournaments.
The Debate and Forensics Teams have been active since the early 1990′s, with Mrs. Peterson as coach. Any student who wishes to participate may do so — from the shyest to the most outgoing. Students gain poise and confidence in expressing themselves. They also learn how to form logical arguments backed up by evidence. In Debate, students learn about current issues, logic, and persuasive techniques. In Forensics, students have a creative outlet for their speaking talents. Tournaments encourage social interaction with students from other schools, as well as satisfaction for a job well done. The competitions are fun and habit forming. Some grads have pursued Debate or Forensics on the university level. Many of our alumni have become attorneys, teachers, managers, and medical personnel. Good speaking skills are essential in any profession, and in one’s personal life as well. We have consistently qualified students for Catholic Nationals, and in doing so, we have brought Bishop Foley Catholic High School’s name to the attention of people from all over the United States. Over the years, our students have competed in New York, Baltimore, Washington, Boston, Pittsburgh, Albany, Milwaukee, Chicago, Omaha, and many other interesting locations.
