In the picturesque city of Graz, the Austrian Autumn Schools Cup debuted in 2024, marking a milestone in the development of schools debating in Austria. Organized by GIBS School and DK Wien, the tournament brought together passionate debaters, dedicated educators, and an exceptional adjudication team for a weekend of learning, competition, and cultural exchange. Generous support came from Stadt Graz, Städtebund, and Erasmus Plus, alongside contributions from DM, Raiffeisen, and Austrian Airlines. The prestigious UNESCO Chair for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue for Southeast Europe at the University of Graz provided a fitting venue for the Grand Final.

A Team of Experts at the Helm

The event boasted an outstanding Chief Adjudicator team:

• Vladimira Šuflaj (Croatia)
• Marilena Hadjicosta (Greece)
• Joshua Varughese (UK/Malaysia)

The tournament’s Equity Officer, Klaudia Maciejewska (Poland), ensured a fair and inclusive environment, while Brina Verdnik (Croatia) managed the tabulation system.

Learning Beyond the Debates

The Autumn Schools Cup wasn’t just about competition—it also created spaces for learning and collaboration. Coaches and educators gathered for the Teachers’ Debate Café, exchanging ideas and insights on how to foster debating at their schools. For students, workshops catered to all skill levels, with beginner and advanced sessions led by the Chief Adjudicators.

A Vibrant Cultural Exchange

Culture Night stood out as a highlight of the tournament, blending fun and cultural appreciation. Local school volunteers organized a Graz-themed quiz, complete with prizes, while delegations showcased their home countries through songs in a lively Country Karaoke. The evening was rounded out with tables of treats from across Europe, creating a truly international atmosphere.

Adding to the excitement, the CA team, Equity Officer Victor Bervoets, and Convener Marina Kojić participated in a show debate on the Round 6 motion. The participants judged their performances through online voting, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Competitive Spirit and Austrian Success

The tournament featured six preliminary rounds, followed by thrilling elimination stages. Austria shone brightly:

• Vienna White advanced to the semi-finals.
• The GIBS Development Squad reached the Novice Final.
• Sofia Schuppler claimed the title of Best Speaker, with an impressive average score of 72.5.

Other Austrian speakers also performed admirably, with Elisa Cerda (Vienna White) ranking in the Top 10 overall. Austrian novice speakers made their mark, including Mihail Zahariev (4th), Yan Bartetskyy (7th), and Viktor Vojnoski (10th).

The judges also made Austria proud. Anna Neuber chaired a semi-final, and Victor Bervoets chaired the Open Grand Final while also paneling the Novice Final.

The Grand Final Showdown

In the Grand Final, Czech Red emerged victorious against Italy Bari on the motion:

This House prefers a world where a god (or gods) is viewed as dystheistic rather than morally infallible.

The debate was closely contested, resulting in a 3:2 split decision.

In the Novice Final, Team Switzerland claimed the championship title, debating the motion:

Assuming a veil of ignorance, this house prefers to be born in Switzerland over Austria.

Both finals showcased the exceptional talent and preparation of the teams, leaving the audience inspired and energized.

An honorary jury added a special touch to the Grand Final. Members included:

• Dr. Amrei Lässer (City of Graz Council Member)
• Ing. Franz Konrad (Austrian Airlines, Head of Propulsion Engineering and Engine Management)
• Birgit Roth (Project Coordinator for the UNESCO Chair)
• Marina Kojić (Team Austria National Team Head Coach)

They awarded Petr Kosička the Best Speech of the Final—a well-deserved recognition.

(For full tab and results, visit this link.)

Thank You to Our Heroes

A huge thank-you to everyone who made this event possible:

Our amazing organizing team:

Hannah Konrad, Sophie Stangl, Elena Brehm, Laura Crnković, Donal Ó Cribín, Sarah De Vera, Arnold Zak, Becky De Vera, Tobias Rothbart, Una Šarić, Valentina Stock, Viktor Vojnoski, and our incredibly patient treasurer, Liam Urban from DK Wien.

Special thanks to GIBS School Principal Edda Berger-Cian and the wonderful Mr. Töbe, who worked tirelessly while being endlessly kind and helpful. And we are grateful to Brigitte Greimel, who organized a memorable free city tour for our guests.

A Promising Future

The first Austrian Autumn Schools Cup succeeded not only in showcasing top-tier debating talent but also in fostering a sense of community and cultural appreciation. With its blend of rigorous competition, enriching activities, and international camaraderie, this event set a high standard for years to come.