Not Here to Talk About Basketball

Sports Editorial

Filipinos are renowned for their unwavering passion and enthusiasm when it comes to sports. From the intense rivalries on the basketball court to the roaring crowds in Manny Pacquiao’s boxing matches, the nation’s love for athletic competition is undeniable. However, in the midst of this sporting frenzy, one crucial discipline often remains overlooked and underappreciated, a sport where points are not made with shots but with words - debating.

Our institution, Mindanao State University - General Santos (MSU-

GSC) is no stranger to the fervor of sports especially during university intramurals or college weeks. The resounding cheers and electrifying atmosphere of the courts have become ingrained in the university’s culture. Yet, hidden beneath the surface of this sporting spectacle lies the MSU-GSC Debate Society (MGDS), a group of individuals engaging in a different kind of battle– now one fought with the power of words, intellect, and the art of rhetoric.

The university’s debate society, despite its recent re-establishment as a recognized non-campus organization in late 2021, has already achieved remarkable success within the debating landscape. In a mere two years, the society has made its mark, including a grand finals appearance at the prestigious Belgrade World Universities Debating Championships 2022 Public Speaking Competition, the Olympics of debate and public speaking. However, these accomplishments have sadly gone unnoticed, and the lack of support and appreciation from the university’s higher-ups is ironically noticeable.

Support, both explicit and tangible, remains a significant challenge for the MGDS within the institution. According to the President of the MSU-GSC debate society, Jefferson Quipit, bureaucratic hurdles impede recognition and hinder access to essential resources such as practice rooms and financial assistance. However, this is not an isolated issue confined to debating alone; other sporting niches within MSU also struggle with inadequate funding and support. The problem lies not solely in the undervaluation of debating but in the university’s failure to provide comprehensive support across various athletic disciplines.

Debate, as a sport, often finds itself overshadowed and undervalued, and most debaters recognize that the intricate exchange of ideas and the art of persuasion may not always captivate the public’s attention in the same way as the thrill of a basketball game. Debating is sometimes dismissed as boring, hyper intellectualized, and disconnected from the relatable aspects of everyday life. This perception, combined with the university’s emphasis on intercollegiate extracurricular events like pageantries and popular sports, contributes to the underestimation of debating’s value.

In order to address these challenges and uplift the status of debating within the university, several key measures must be implemented. It is imperative to provide all varsities, including the MGDS, with proper office and training spaces. This tangible support from the university administration, akin to the assistance granted to other debate societies in the Philippines, would significantly bolster the MGDS’s capabilities. Recognition also plays a vital role. The society’s consistent participation and notable achievements in external competitions should not go unnoticed or unacknowledged. By acknowledging their accomplishments, the administration and the whole institution can inspire and motivate debaters to excel further. And while monetary support should be a last resort, easing the financial burden on debaters by covering registration fees would undoubtedly prove advantageous.

As we reflect upon the state of sports at our institution, it becomes evident that a more comprehensive and inclusive approach is needed. Recognizing and appreciating the diversity of talents and pursuits within our university community is paramount, and providing the MGDS and other organizations with the necessary resources, recognition, and support will pave the way for a holistic extracurricular landscape that fosters intellectual growth, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. By embracing the transformative power of debating and advocating for its rightful recognition, we can create an inclusive and diverse environment that supports learning beyond the confines of the classroom. While basketball holds a special place in our hearts, it is crucial that we start talking about other sports, such as debating, that have long remained in the shadows. Now or never!