Hard work paid off for the Warwick Academy middle school debate team, comprising Asha Symons, Conor Hay and Chiara Marshall, who won all four of their debates to win their division in the 25th annual schools debate competition.

Adding sparkle to the win was the fact that Chiara was one of the five middle school speakers singled out for particular mention.

It was debatable who was more nervous, the team members or the coaches, as the Warwick Academy debate teams gathered on the veranda of Saltus Grammar School.

By the end of the day, with four wins under their belts, there was no doubt that the middle school team had proved their ability to explore both sides of the topic, This House believes feminism is obsolete and to argue persuasively for the motion This House regrets joining Facebook.

“It scared me out of my wits,” noted Chiara, who was third speaker of the team, “because you don’t prepare a speech when you’re third, and I don’t like being unprepared. But by the first debate, I was fine.

“When we won I was so relieved because I had wanted to win since I began debating three years ago.”

Conor Hay, who was the second speaker, said: “It was a great experience, which can really improve your confidence, public speaking skills and ability to think on your feet. I strongly suggest anyone interested in the debate signs up for it.”

Warwick Academy also entered two senior teams comprising of Cydney Simons, Hannah Fletcher and Mariah Cordeiro in the A team and Josie DeBraga, Chiffonae Jackson and Jordan Caisey in the B team. Team B made it through to the impromptu round, where they lost to Berkeley Institute.