Debate Dominance: Murray State’s SDU Shuts Out NPDA Finals
At the Pejaver Memorial Tournament, hosted by Middle TN State University, the Murray State Speech & Debate Union locked out the top two spots of National Parliamentary debate, taking 1st AND 2nd place.
Freshmen Hailey Meshew and Coleton Boyd made up the first pair of debaters to secure the win, and Samuel Miller performed as a maverick (meaning he debated solo and filled both roles), making his victory impressive for an additional reason.
Both teams won their semi-final round on a 3-0 decision, meaning Murray clinched all 6 of their judge’s ballots on their way to the final round.
Essabella Voss and Caleb McCurren provided invaluable help during prep by discussing argumentation strategies, researching evidence, and anticipating the cases of our opponents.
This is the second year in a row that Murray State has achieved a lockout.
“Every member of the team contributed to this massive victory; a lockout is the ultimate demonstration of team synergy” Goke said.
Members of the SDU will perform at the annual Dean’s Debate showcase on November 6th at 7 pm.
You will be able to stream the event here: murraystate.edu/streaming
From left to right: Assistant Director Ana Moyers, Essabella Voss, Coleton Boyd, Hailey Meshew, Samuel Miller, Caleb McCurren, Director Ryan Goke