The 2022 UIL State Congress Championships would mark a return to in-person competitions for UIL Debate in two years. MPHS seniors Connelly Cowan and Taylor Hubbs traveled to Austin where they would compete against the best in the state in Congressional Debate.

On day one at the University Teaching Center on the campus of The University of Texas at Austin, fifty-one 5A competitors representing thirty-eight high schools from across the state of Texas were split into three groups of 17, known as Chambers. After two preliminary rounds, the top six competitors from each chamber would advance to day 2, known as Super Congress. At the end of day one, Cowan advanced to day 2 with Hubbs narrowly missing advancing by just one place.

On day 2, the eighteen 5A finalists would compete on the floor of the Texas State Capitol. Cowan finished as the 7th ranked Congressional Debater in the state for the 2021-2022 season. She and Hubbs will now shift their focus to the CX District meet later this month.

“Competing at Congress State the last three years has been an integral part of my high school career,” said Cowan. “Researching and debating legislation in the State Capitol helped me realize what I want to do with the rest of my life. I am so grateful for the support of my parents, coach, and team.”

The next major events for MPHS Speech and Debate are the Cross-Examination District meet on January 27 at the Region VIII Service Center and the NSDA National Qualifying tournament on February 17-19 at UT Tyler. MPHS Speech and Debate is coached by Enrique Martinez.

Photo – Taylor Hubbs and Connelly Cowan