By Michael Cole ‘27
Over the winter break, rain, snow, and constant sleet blanketed Cambridge, Massachusetts. But for Chaminade High School’s debate team, the weather was just another challenge to overcome at the Harvard National Speech and Debate Tournament. As students walked through the cobblestoned streets and braced against the winds, they embraced the grit and determination that define the Flyers’ program.
Each year, Chaminade’s debate team attends Harvard University’s tournament—one of the largest and most competitive forensic events in the world. For students, this tournament is more than just a chance to compete; it is an experience that builds community, resilience, and skill. Head Coach Mr. William Clemens ’14 stated, “By attending tournaments like Harvard or the Princeton Classic, students broaden their horizons by encountering diverse debate styles and competitors from across the globe. They’re not just learning; they’re growing into self-sustaining, driven individuals.”
Chaminade sent three divisions of students to compete at this national event. With varying events to compete in, the students stood strong in each category.
The tournament started before the sun rose. Through ice and snow, the students marched around the Harvard campus to keep up with an extremely tight and rigorous competition schedule.
On the speech side, several students competed in extemporaneous events, and some even double-entered to succeed in multiple areas. In the debate corner, meanwhile, students argued their opinions relentlessly and faced fierce adversaries from different schools. Among the most notable achievements were when Erik Ravn ’27 and Owen Sack ’27 made it to the playoffs.
Chaminade’s legacy at Harvard is a point of commitment. The team has built a reputation for integrity and excellence, reflecting the school’s values on a national stage. “We’re representing Chaminade’s competitive spirit and our integrity as a team,” Clemens noted.
Alumni and current members alike credit the program’s supportive aspect, where students collaborate and push boundaries. Ravn commented, “The Harvard tournament gives us the opportunity to showcase our skills gathered throughout the year. Furthermore, it exposes us to talent from around the world, fostering growth for both our team and ourselves.”
For participants, the tournament is a milestone. It’s where late-night research, relentless practice, and teamwork turn into moments of growth. Through every round, Chaminade proves that debate is more than a competition; it is a platform for building character, community, and lifelong perseverance.
“We coach students not just for success but to persevere through challenges,” Clemens confirmed. Students return not only with sharper debate skills, but also with the confidence to navigate conflicts in their lives.
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