Shoreham-Wading River debate team members qualify for states
The newly formed debate team at Shoreham-Wading River High School already has some wins under their belt.
Three members of the debate team — a group of nine who competed at Jericho High School earlier this month — qualified to debate at the state level.
Junior Andrew Honold came in first place in the junior varsity division by winning all four debates he competed in at the Feb. 10 event. Additionally, freshman Jalal Sawas and junior Mahdi Rashidzada each won three of four debates, at the novice and junior varsity level, respectively, qualifying each of them for states.
“I cannot convey the level of excitement that’s been buzzing through the team,” English teacher Brenna Gilroy said. “Everyone is absolutely thrilled that [SWR will] be represented at the state championship tournament.”
The team was founded by juniors Declan Beran and Emma Kirkpatrick, its co-captains, last year. Declan and Emma competed at the event as well, including freshman Paul Loscalzo, Yusra Rashidzada and juniors Sarah Accera and Kathleen Loscalzo.
The students will compete in the New York State Forensic League Championship tournament at Hofstra University in April.
Photo caption: The debate team is headed for the state championship. (Credit: Courtesy photo)
