By MariaFernanda Gomez
DRAPER - Juan Diego Catholic High School debaters recently competed against 241 teams at the University of California-Berkeley. Seniors Aniela Butler and Gus Schwab led the team's success, obtaining five bids to attend the selective Tournament of Champions at the University of Kentucky - a first in Juan Diego history. Butler placed 17th out of 482 speakers; together, the team placed fifth.
Coach Josh Clark couldn't be prouder of their success, which he says reflects the duo's hard work and dedication. "They're not only great debaters, but good leaders and people," Clark said. "They represent strong Catholic values of honesty, good sportsmanship and a strong sense of community."
Butler and Schwab also recently placed in the top rounds at tournaments in Las Vegas and at Alta High School.
Schwab is in his third year of debating. "I'd really like to thank our coaches and Aniela Butler for all their support and work to help us out," he said.
Butler says their partnership is fantastic. "I couldn't imagine debating with anyone else but Gus," she said.
Both plan to continue debating after high school. The University of Texas offered Schwab a debate scholarship as a top recruit, and he is also considering Gonzaga University. Butler will probably debate at Michigan State University next year.
MariaFernanda Gomez is a news editor and reporter for the "The Speaking Eagle," the Juan Diego Catholic High School newspaper.
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