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Rollins recently celebrated a historic milestone as its new intercollegiate forensics (speech and debate) team competed for the first time in the Sunshine Series Part 1 Tournament against 27 colleges and universities, including nationally recognized Division I programs.

Despite facing off against programs with decades of competitive tradition, Rollins students quickly proved themselves as rising talent across multiple debate and public-speaking events. Anthony Figlozzi ’28, Aidan Frazier ’26, Amelia King ’29, Jade Monroe ’28, Maya Bell ’28, Brett Covington ’28, and Arda Gokce ’29 represented the College and earned both individual honors and team recognition.

• Anthony Figlozzi ’28 went 3-1 in preliminary rounds, advancing to the Novice Quarterfinals, where he scored a unanimous decision and then competed in the semifinals. Moreover, Figlozzi averaged 37 out of 40 speaker points across his preliminary rounds.
• Aidan Frazier ’26 went 4-0 in preliminary rounds, earned an outstanding average of 38 out of 40 speaker points, and advanced to the Junior Varsity quarterfinals.
• Amelia King ’29 not only competed in debate—where she averaged 36 points out of 40 speaker points—but she also broke to the final round in Varsity Poetry Interpretation, Rollins’ first finals appearance in an individual event. In the final round, she impressed the judging panel with her delivery and creativity, earning a first-place ranking from one of the three judges and securing the second-place novice award.
• Jade Monroe ’28 went 3-1 in preliminary debate rounds, earning commendations for her cross-examination skill and argumentation clarity.
• Maya Bell ’28 earned an average 37 out of 40 debate speaker points, including a perfect 40-point round in preliminary rounds.
• Brett Covington ’28 competed in both Extemporaneous and Impromptu Speaking, where his charisma, natural delivery, and relatable storytelling were highlighted in the judges’ remarks.
• Arda Gokce ’29 represented Rollins in Varsity Extemporaneous Speaking, with judges noting his sharp analysis and strong speaking voice.

Rollins students held their own against powerhouse institutions in a tournament so competitive that a 3-1 preliminary record did not guarantee advancing to final rounds. The team not only reached multiple elimination rounds in debate but also placed in the final round of an individual speaking event—proof of Rollins’ breadth and versatility in forensics.

“Facing larger Division I schools can be intimidating for a new program,” says communication professor David Painter. “But our students showed that Rollins belongs in this arena. Their talent, resilience, and creativity signal a bright future for our team, and I am incredibly proud of their courage and character just to compete in this completely new arena.”

Any Rollins students, faculty, or staff interested in joining or learning more about the team are encouraged to contact David Painter at dpainter@rollins.edu.

• David Painter |
• Communication Studies |
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