Student Captains

Daisy started debating with Potomac Oak in 6th grade and since then she’s made lifelong friendships, learned new skills, and cultivated passion. Daisy enjoys studying the vast argument literature on various topics and being able to think of new creative ideas. She loves to spread discourse about arguments that she believes to be important. Some of Daisy’s favorite memories of debate include making friends with new debaters across the country and chilling in between rounds at in-person tournaments. She’s super excited to lead the team and contribute to new memories within the community.

Ellen started debating with Potomac in sixth grade and has developed a passion for research, creativity, and public speaking. Her favorite aspects of debate are the lifelong friends and team dinners/bonding events where she has made unforgettable memories. Ellen looks forward to leading the team to yet another fantastic and inclusive season, and she can not wait to see everyone at in-person tournaments!

Katherine joined debate in middle school and began competing in eighth grade. Along the way, she has developed a passion for public speaking, critical thinking skills, and many valuable friendships. Amid all the complexities of debate, her favorite aspect of debate is how unpredictable it is and how it teaches you to think on the spot. As a captain, she is looking forward to supporting the Potomac community and creating lasting memories.

Lily has been a member of Potomac Oak Debate for almost 8 years, and since then debate has become one of her biggest passions. Championing tournaments such as the International Public Policy Forum, UK Season Opener, and Harvard Forensics Tournament, she has developed communication, leadership, and public speaking skills that will help her into the future. She treasures the community she has found along the way, and is excited to further build that community with another season at Potomac Debate!

Lucas started debating at Potomac Debate Academy in ninth grade. Since then, he has gained confidence as a public speaker as well as become a more critical thinker. He enjoys meeting amazing people through classes and tournaments and sharing perspectives. One of his favorite aspects of debate is researching and learning about topics, broadening his understanding of diverse issues. Lucas is excited to lead the team, especially in facilitating group prep, and is looking forward to an amazing season!

Andy has been debating for Potomac Debate Academy since 6th grade, not only developing cherishable skills with researching, quick thinking, and public speaking, but most importantly cultivating life-long friendships with fellow debate team members. Working collaboratively with people has always been his favorite thing when it comes to debate, therefore as captain, he looks forward to creating a true team environment and helping everyone on the team share the same passion for debate.

Leavy began debating for Potomac Debate Academy in fifth grade in search of a new hobby. She quickly fell in love with the activity and the diverse community that came with it. Through all of the late nights and tournament weekends, she has made lifelong friendships, skills, and interests. Leavy is excited to lead the team to another successful season full of unforgettable memories!

Preston began debating at Potomac in eighth grade, where he took a profound interest in unique case writing strategies and judge adaptation. Preston enjoys all the special opportunities debate provides, such as meeting new faces, acquiring more knowledge about the world around him, and enhancing his public speaking skills. He is extremely excited to lead the team and share his experiences with the rest of the Potomac community!

Victoria is a junior at Winston Churchill High School. Victoria was first introduced to debate back in fourth grade just as an extracurricular to help improve their public speaking and writing skills, and have been with Poaks ever since. Victoria is looking forward to sharing the experiences that they’ve gained over the past several years with young debaters to help them grow their expertise.

Zayd Patel is a Junior at the Heights School in Potomac, MD. Starting debate with Potomac midway through 7th grade, he has since enjoyed both Public Forum and Lincoln Douglas debate. While Zayd enjoys all real-life skills debate provides, his favorite part of debate is its strategic structure and the competitive atmosphere the activity provides. Zayd is thrilled to help prepare the team as best as possible through technical and experiential means and is looking forward to a great year for the Potomac team!