After six years of coaching speech and debate, one of which at Staley, Shiloh Dutton earned a Diamond award which reflects “excellence and longevity in the activity” according to the National Speech and Debate Association.

Dutton said that the award was meaningful because he was recognized for his hard work as coach.

“It’s nice to be recognized by peers,” said Dutton. “Not everyone outside of speech and debate knows what we do.”

Students and coaches involved with debate and speech compete in tournaments in order to rank and earn points. For any tournament, a lot of preparation is needed which requires Dutton to give a lot of his free time to coach the team after school, according to varsity debate member sophomore Chloe Wallen. Assistant speech and debate coach Travis Mauzey said he wasn’t surprised that Dutton earned the award because he is dedicated as a coach.

“It doesn’t surprise me at all that he won,” said Mauzey. “He’s one of the most dedicated coaches I know.”

Wallen said that Dutton is a good coach because he has purpose behind his coaching. Wallen has been coached by Dutton for two years. She said that Dutton has helped her develop her voice.

“He has really helped me be clear when I speak in front of judges,” said Wallen.

From teaching speech and debate, Dutton said that the skills learned can be applied beyond the class and make a student more active in society. Dutton said that debate gives students a strong voice in order to advocate for themselves.

“It teaches you how to be an advocate for yourself which allows you to be more effective at work, family and community,” said Dutton.

Because of debate, students must research the topic that they will compete at tournament for one to two months which makes students better members in the community because they research import issues in society, he said.

“Debate allows us to go into a more in-depth level on issues that directly impact our society today and in the future,” said Dutton.

The award Dutton earned reflects more than his hard work, according to Mauzey.

“Dutton has a true passion for teaching Speech and Debate which is definitely reflected in the Diamond award,” said Mauzey.

Dutton will receive his award at The National Speech and Debate Tournament in Dallas on June 12.