Amarillo Debate team’s senior, Hayden Brilhart received first place in the UIL Congress State Competition in Austin on Jan. 8, 2026.

“When I came into debate, I wanted to win. Now, I want to celebrate the milestones of my teammates,” Brillhart said. “There is no point in winning a trophy if you have nobody to share it with.”

Over 60 people from multiple 5A schools competed at the seven hour event. 

“At Congress, you represent what the people actually want rather than just making things up so it has multiple parts and segments which need to be looked at.” junior Hazik Aiyan said. “I think it’s just at a different level.”

Brillhart had to present bills in a congressional setting. The event is often watched by state congressmen. Last year, Brillhart placed second in the event, this year he was hoping to win over the judges to take first place. 

“It is about the perceptions of the judge at that moment, not a ball going through a hoop so it is clear that you win,” debate teacher Melissa Denny said. “So we have to take the win, celebrate and then start back from the beginning to set incremental goals.”

The team aims for more achievements and awards for the foreseeable future.

“Our goal for next year in Congress is to just continue to prepare and practice and make it to State,” Denny said. “Then we will focus on perfecting the skills so we can make it to finals and then place in the top six.”