Maverick Speech and Debate held a banquet on April 19 in the cafeteria to recognize the members’ achievements throughout the season. During the banquet members were inducted into the National Speech and Debate Association, a farewell was given to the seniors and the leadership team for the 2024-2025 school year was announced. 

The team’s coach Lashell Whitley drew attention to the traits of a speech and debate member that not only benefit them but the entirety of the team.  

“I was really proud to see students strengthening and encouraging each other during the highs and lows that came with each tournament, ” Whitley said. “Cooperation and supportiveness are the pillars of our team and it made me immensely happy with these qualities being executed in each member.” 

The final banquet was a bittersweet moment for the seniors who have been dedicated members of the speech and debate team since its inaugural year. For senior and Vice President Eshaan Shaik, the conclusion of this year’s season was rather sentimental. 

“I have been a part of the Maverick Debate team my entire high school career so this team means a lot to me, ” Shaik said. “Over the past years, we have become a family. It’s really sad for us seniors to leave this family we have created. I will forever cherish my time spent in the debate team.”