Barrie Students Make Local History at Provincial Debate Championships

Two students from Barrie North Collegiate have made local history, becoming the very first team from Simcoe County to capture top honours at the Ontario Secondary School Debating Union (OSDU) Bilingual Provincial Championships.

Grade 12 students Logan Lehman and Camryn George not only clinched first place in the prestigious provincial competition but also distinguished themselves individually: Lehman was named the tournament’s top speaker overall, while George earned the second-place ranking. Their teamwork, preparation, and sharp analytical skills helped set a new benchmark for debate in the region.

Following their provincial success, the pair went on to represent Simcoe County on the national stage. Competing against Canada’s strongest high school debaters, Lehman and George finished an impressive 17th overall, further underscoring the calibre of debate talent being developed locally.

Their achievements were formally celebrated during a recent Barrie City Council meeting. Mayor Alex Nuttall personally presented both students with framed certificates of recognition, offering congratulations on behalf of the city and applauding their dedication to excellence. The moment, marked by a standing ovation from those in attendance, highlighted the pride that Barrie takes in its young leaders.

In a conversation with Simcoe Community Media, Lehman and George spoke about the transformative value of debate. They explained that the activity teaches critical thinking, confidence, teamwork, and the ability to communicate effectively—skills they believe are useful in every area of life, from academics to future careers. Both students also stressed the importance of accessibility, noting that debate opportunities are open as early as Grade 5 and continue through university.

George, in particular, encouraged more young women to join debate clubs, pointing out that competitive debating is still too often male-dominated. She emphasized that girls bring fresh perspectives and should feel empowered to use their voices in forums that shape ideas and spark meaningful conversations.

Beyond recognizing Lehman and George, the same council meeting also included several key updates from city committees. Reports from the Community Safety and Affordability committees were presented, and council members discussed a series of planning and development initiatives, ultimately approving multiple projects aimed at supporting Barrie’s ongoing growth.

The recognition of two students alongside important municipal decisions offered a reminder of how both civic leadership and youth achievement contribute to strengthening the local community.