People see that as kind of the ultimate end to a good education.
Home-school student Joseph Rose, a debate champion from San Jose, Calif., said preparing for tournaments has made him a better student and filled a void in his life. Joseph won last year's national tournament after a tense final round that pitted him and partner Janai Hess of Napa, Calif., against his younger brother John Peter, and his partner, John Gabriel Ballard. This year, Joseph Rose and Janai are back to defend their title, but with John Peter also returning, another war of the Roses is a distinct possibility. The tournament continues through today at Loudoun Valley High School, about a hour's drive from Washington. Tournament coordinator Christy Shipe, a onetime college debate champion, said two-person teams earn the honor of competing in the national tournament after winning local and state competitions held around the country.