The 2014 National Speech and Debate Association Tournament took place June 15–20 in Overland Park, Kan. In order to participate in the largest speech and debate tournament in the world, students from all over the United States vied to qualify during the spring competition season. The South Carolina district sent 24 qualifiers in 10 events to compete for national recognition. Elliott Kelley (BJA Class of 2014) was one of the two qualifiers in Lincoln-Douglas Debate.
Overall, the S.C. team did exceptionally well. For Bob Jones Academy, the national tournament brought a new school record of debate accomplishment as Elliott debated his way through 11 rounds of competition and landed in 20th place in the nation out of the 250 Lincoln-Douglas debaters. Prior to this, Academy students had reached the 9th round and the top 50 in the nation.
Debate coach Chuck Nicholas was recognized at the Diamond Coach Ceremony in front of over 3500 competitors and coaches. Mr. Nicholas received his 5th Coaching Diamond. A 5-Diamond Coach must have coached at least 25 years and earned 13,000 coaching points. As an active coach in S.C., he holds the highest coaching honors of any coach in the state.
Gail Nicholas received a 9th Distinguished Service Plaque for her service to the National Speech and Debate Association and to the South Carolina district. In the 89-year history of the NSDA, only three other coaches have earned this recognition.
The BJA Speech and Debate team is looking for new members. Students who are interested in expanding their communication, thinking and leadership skills should contact Chuck or Gail Nicholas for more information on joining the team.
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