Georgetown Semifinalists

On February 29, 2007 most of the Randolph-Macon Academy Pubic Forum teams left for metros; however, there were still a couple of teams that were left at school. The following morning, on March 1, the teams of Brennan Morris and Martha Galewski, Gigi Baughman and Evan Pionkowski, and John Holsinger and Apryl Sands, left the Georgetown Pubic Forum tournament. Since Mr. Gregg had to be with the qualifying public forum teams, the Georgetown crew left with Mr. Rider on an R-MA van. The whole way to the tournament the team was dead asleep. Arriving just before rounds, the team registered and met together to discuss some key tactics. “I am confident in our teams ability,” stated Brennan.

At the tournaments there were teams from as far as Casper, Wyoming. After the groups first round, they met together and discussed some strategies and cases that other teams were using. Ms. Fitzgerald kindly went out and bought the team Smart Water in order to keep them hydrated throughout the day. After grabbing some pop tarts, energy drinks, and water, everyone was ready for their second round. “ We have some good competition, but we are ready!” exclaimed freshman John Holsinger.

One second round was over, it was time for a lunch break. Everyone was given three hours to roam the campus and to get lunch. Without known that a Chipotle lunch was being provided by the generous Georgetown tournament staff, Martha and Brennan decided to explore the town of Georgetown and grab some Mexican food at a local restaurant. Martha, determined to find a dress for military ball, dragged Brennan with her to find a dress. “ Brennan was extremely patient and helpful, he is an amazing friend,” stated senior Martha Galewski.

Meanwhile, back on campus, the rest of the team walked around a bit and took some time to relax. “ The campus is absolutely gorgeous. All I can say is Wow!” commented freshman Apryl Sands, “ It’s just feels so peaceful and tranquil here.” At this point in time, all the students at Georgetown were on spring break, which left the whole campus to the debate teams. Nevertheless, the team didn’t neglect to take advantage of all of their opportunities, such as the free computers and internet. Senior Gigi Baughman was the first to check her email, look up statistics for her case, and of course check her facebook. “ It’s really nice because at tournaments such as these, you meet new people from all around the country and become friends with them. The best part about it is that it’s so easy to stay in contact with them through facebook, so checking it is half the fun.”

The team finished their last two rounds by four o’clock. Unsuccessful in her previous attempt to find a dress, Martha signed out with Max and went shopping yet again. Meanwhile, Ms. Fitzgerald drove the rest of the team in her car to a restaurant in Washington D.C. to grab some dinner. “The food was rich in flavor, and after a day of competing there is nothing better than a good meal,” commented John Holsinger.

After dinner the team retreated back to the Holiday Inn hotel, where they hung out with each other and watched TV. Later that night the whole team, including Mr. Gregg, Tommy Forte , Will Dungan, and Graham Morrow met up in the luxurious high rise restaurant at the top of the hotel. “ You can see all of D.C. from here,” noted Graham.

After some hearty food the team prepared for the next day to come and headed to bed. In the morning, everyone was up and ready on time. Once arriving to campus they enjoyed a delicious continental breakfast, yet again provided by the Georgetown tournament staff. The team had two more rounds to conquer. The team excelled in their diligence, and worked together very well. Both the teams of Galewski/ Morris and Pionkowski/ McCotter cleared to semifinals.

After some lunch, Mr. Gregg allowed the team to go shopping in Georgetown. Everyone found something that they really enjoyed. “I found the coolest blue shoes ever and bought them,” said Will Dungan enthusiastically.

On the way back the team reminisced over the past two days and discussed future tournaments. Georgetown was a fantastic tournament and a great bonding experience.