Article by Phoenix writer Delaney Clark ’25:
On Saturday, November 9, the Speech and Debate Team took part in a competition against other rookie competitors of the Long Island Speech and Debate League. Five Kellenberg members participated in these debates: Jillian McLaughlin, Thomas Englese, Anna Prince, Emanuel Chamarro, and Callum Stevenson. Students competed in either Oral Interpretation, more performance based speaking, or informative Extemporaneous Speaking.
The event as a whole had a very energetic atmosphere. Although students from a multitude of schools came to perform their best, the debaters’ shared love of their craft inspired them to support and encourage other teams.
Sophomore Emanuel Chamorro says, “Besides the fact that we go to different schools, it is a family. All of my competitors showcased their talents and dedication that fostered a sense of camaraderie among everyone.”
More recently, Kellenberg hosted a Speech and Debate competition on Saturday, November 16. Over 400 students and sixteen teams from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island attended the competition. Junior Shannon White received 1st place in her competition: Original Oratory.
Kellenberg’s Speech and Debate Team is run by Mr. Cummings who has been in charge of the team for the last ten years. Very proud of this team, Mr. Cummings says, “It is great to see students compete and achieve at local and national tournaments. There is so much ability in our team, and I am so impressed with their results.”
