November 16, 2015
MARSHALL NEWS MESSENGER (11/14/15) - East Texas Baptist University was a hive of activity on Friday as the fourth annual Tiger Invitational Debate Tournament kicked off.
ETBU Debate Coach Cole Franklin said about 96 students from 14 institutions and five states were on campus Friday preparing for the beginning of the tournament that will run through tonight.
ETBU sophomore Tele'ma Blackman was nervous as she prepared with her team Friday but said she thrives off of the anxiety.
"I work off of that anxiety and it helps me work under pressure," Blackman said. "I prepare by making sure all of my ink pens are in color order, my timer is set, my note paper is ready, and I make sure I have lots and lots of coffee and candy to keep my energy up."
The energy was definitely up as her team prepared with a pre-round prayer.
"We have a half hour before the round to prepare our case," ETBU junior Charles Quigley said. "Each round lasts about 27 minutes. You have to be able to think on your feet. Debate helps you to be open minded because you debate topics from politics to sports to pop culture and sometimes you have to argue for something you don't personally believe."
Franklin, who also serves as chair for ETBU's Communication Studies department, said these are the debate skills that help make a well-rounded student and individual.
"Probably one of the most useful skills someone can develop while in debate is organizational skills," Franklin said. "They also have to learn how to do research, critical thinking, develop public speaking skills and learn how to look at both sides of an issue."
Debaters most often are well versed in current events and politics as well.
Friday's topics for debate included the Tom Brady "Deflate-gate" scandal, "Backing the Blue" issues discussing if all police officers should wear bullet proof vests, U.S.-Russia ties, the Iran deal, Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign and Caitlyn Jenner.
"They definitely have to think outside the box," Franklin said.
The tournament continues today with elimination rounds late in the day.
The debate also included three ETBU alumni, including Marshall City Commissioner District 4 LaDarius Carter who won in the professional division two years ago.
(Used by permission www.marshallnewsmessenger.com, story by MNM reporter Bridget Ortigo)