The LSUS debate team has solidified its standing as a leading program in the International Public Debate Association format, and recently, the Pilots embarked on a whirlwind tour of the United Kingdom, putting the “international” aspect of their prowess to the test.
In a country where debate is ingrained in the educational curriculum from an early age, the relatively new LSUS debaters engaged in three spirited debates against colleges from Scotland and England.
As part of the 27th annual Montgomery Cup, LSUS joined Central Missouri and Lee College as the American representatives. The debates unfolded against esteemed institutions such as the University of Edinburgh, Imperial College, and Durham University.
Reflecting on the experience, LSUS debater C.J. Longino remarked, “It’s simultaneously foreign but also very familiar. When you’re debating against an international team, it’s enriching to engage with their culture and their unique style of debating.”
The LSUS contingent, comprising Longino, Chloe Fresne, Daniel Davis, Jordan Guillot, and Cameron Foley, embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly.
Coach A.J. Edwards, on his second Montgomery Cup excursion, humorously cautioned his debaters against engaging in a “wit battle,” highlighting the diverse styles of communication observed during the trip.
Graduate assistant Daniel Davis appreciated the UK debaters’ ability to distill broad philosophical arguments into concise points, a departure from his accustomed style of debate.
Aside from the intellectual exchanges, the LSUS squad indulged in sightseeing, marveling at iconic landmarks such as London’s Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, and exploring the historic golf course at St. Andrews in Scotland.
They also tackled Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, relishing glimpses of Scottish castles and beaches amid the challenging ascent.
Throughout the journey, the LSUS team embraced the local customs, including the ubiquitous “Cheers,” adding an extra layer of cultural immersion to their experience.
For Longino and Davis, the trip was more than just a debate expedition; it was a transformative adventure shared with fellow debaters.
This enriching journey was made possible through the generous financial support of the LSUS Foundation and the Noel Foundation. After 16 eventful days, the group returned home, their minds brimming with newfound experiences and insights.