Sunday, February 16, 2025
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DEBATE TEAM CC NATIONAL CHAMPS

Photo Courtesy of Eric Maag

By Juan H. Estrada

Does pineapple belong on pizza? Don’t get these students started. 

They are the Jaguars Debate Team. They are successful, well-prepared, award-winning debaters. And yes, for fun they debate whether tropical fruit belongs on pizza.

Professor of Communications Eric Maag, one of their coaches, said the hard-working debaters deserve to have a little fun at dinner time.

“We do policy debate,” said the 20-year veteran debate advisor. “It’s the most rigorous form of debate out there.”

The Jaguars participated this spring in the three-day Cross Examination Debate Association National Debate Tournament at CSU Fullerton. This year’s topic was policy surrounding restricting U.S. nuclear forces. At national tournaments like these, Maag said, the competition is fierce.

Collegiate debate teams are not categorized by university level or community college. Everyone battles together in a pool-style competition. Southwestern College’s debate team fearlessly enters these national competitions, Maag said, frequently ranking in the top 10.

Best not to bet on Goliath when David is in the house.

The Jaguars took home the Joy McClintock Community College Award, a sweepstakes trophy presented to the top debate team in the country at the end of each season.

Southwestern grabbed third in Individual Novice Team, a doubles-style debate where teams of two compete. Jaguars Karina Sanchez and Stefany Pagan capped an excellent year by bringing home a national award.

Team captain Sanchez brought home the prestigious National New Outstanding Competitor Award for the student who embodies the essence of debate. Maag called it a history-making triumph for Sanchez. 

“It has to do with someone who not only brings competitive success, but also the character that we value in debate — people who advocate for themselves and for others,” he said. “It’s exceptional. We’ve never had a student win the Newcomer of the Year Award. Karina is a very special person.”

Sanchez, a transfronteriza who commutes to Southwestern College from Mexico said these accomplishments seem unbelievable because she sometimes feels like an outsider in the realm of debate. 

“I thought debate was a White man’s sport,” said Sanchez. “(I am) a queer Latina. I was really surprised I was nominated and actually won. It is validating. And to win third place with another Latina creates a space for us to be accepted in debate.”

“I am really proud of Karina,” said debate teammate Jacian Arreola. “It proves this person is dedicated to their craft. This award includes universities. That shows how much of a great accomplishment Karina had.” 

Maag was also honored. He was named National Public Advocate of the Year for his contributions to labor rights and his role as lead negotiator securing healthcare for part-time employees. It marks the first time a Southwestern College debate coach received a national award for non-debate work.

“Maag-o’roni is what everyone calls him,” said Sanchez. “He’s the greatest.”

Head debate coach Ryan Wash won the Critic of the Year Award given to highly-regarded individuals in the debate community.

So, does pineapple belong on pizza?

“Oh my God! Yes it does,” said Sanchez. “It’s sweet. You get the savory taste, it’s so delicious.”

Go ahead and debate Sanchez – if you dare.

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