THE ECHO

By Grace Otey // Managing Editor

Avon’s debate team is impressive to say the least, with its exponential growth and consistent top state placements in its short six years in existence. Their success isn’t just as a team but is showcased in each individual participant, especially captains. Those of whom lead the team by example and act as mentors throughout the season. As the debate team enters their seventh year captain Santiago Jimenez Butcher looks forward to what the year will bring.

What grade are you in?

I’m a junior.

Why did you join debate?

[Head Coach] Mrs. Langford’s justification to join speech and debate best aligns with why I chose to personally, to find my voice. 

What’s your favorite part of debate?

Honestly, it has to be interacting from people all over the state.

What events do you compete in?

In debate I compete in Lincoln-Douglas, where I lead as head debate captain. In speech, I compete in International Extemporaneous, and Impromptu, where I am Impromptu captain.

What’s your biggest debate weakness?

My biggest debate issue is probably talking too quickly and sometimes conveying ideas that are hard to convey in the limited context of a debate round.

Why did you want to be a captain?

I saw peech and debate as something I wanted to put more time into, and something I loved very deeply, so naturally, I wanted to extend my involvement. Also, having competed at nationals freshman year, I had quickly gotten to know many of the leaders on the team, so joining them as a fellow captain felt natural. 

What traits do you embody as a leader?

As a leader I am able to communicate, establish expectations and see that they get done, etc.

Any hobbies?

I’m a climber, I like chess, reading (right now I’m reading Northanger Abbey), cycling, and swimming.

Favorite Show?

I’m yearning for “Severance” season 3.

What would you say to someone interested in debate?

Go for it! If you don’t give it a try now, then when will you? You need to be willing to fail before you can succeed!