This week marked the first home debate of the season. After a strong show against BSHS, all teams were full of confidence going into round two. The Nudgee College Senior A, unfortunately, went down in a split panel decision (2-1) to BBC. It was one of those nights that just wasn’t meant to be. Despite this unexpected loss, the premiership hopes are well and truly alive with destiny still in our own hands.

Although the Senior A was defeated, Nudgee College recorded a strong performance across the board. Congratulations to the 11.1s, 10.2s, 9.2s, and 8.1s, who all won their respective debates. I would also like to congratulate Basil Nolan for making his debut in the Senior A on Friday night’s short prep debate. His passion and love for the blue and white were clearly evident as he put his heart and soul into the debate. As expected, Oliver Kele – the youngest ever Nudgee College Senior A debater – produced another masterful performance.

With the COVID-19 restrictions, the Nudgee College boarders weren’t allowed entry into Tierney Auditorium. Consequently, they tunnelled us from our prep room to Tierney, roaring as loud as they could supporting three of their ten thousand brothers. For me, this was the highlight of the night. It illustrated to us that win, lose, or draw, our Nudgee brothers are behind us every step of the way, in any possible means they can. This aided us to lose gracefully. Thank you boys! As Br Damien Price said this morning, it’s not the premiership that counts; it’s for your behaviour that you are remembered for.

On behalf of all Nudgee debaters, a huge thanks to Mx Makiol, Dom Carroll, year level coordinators, and all coaches for their ongoing commitment and dedication to Nudgee Debating. The next challenge for Nudgee debaters is our arch-adversary and debating powerhouse, Gregory Terrace. For the Senior A, it is a must-win debate to keep destiny in our own hands. All the best to all debaters for their preparation leading up to the Terrace round. We look forward to our two upcoming bye rounds which will allow us to prepare thoroughly for the red and black.

Shannen Gerard-Solker – 2021 Debating Captain