Quite The Honor: TCS Names Debate Tournament For Judge England

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Retired Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge John England wrapped up his keynote address Saturday morning and after receiving applause from the crowd of young debate enthusiasts and coaches in the Northridge High School auditorium, he took his seat in the audience. Clutching a cup of coffee, he stared at the floor in thought as Tuscaloosa City Schools Superintendent Mike Daria took to the podium.

Little did the now-retired Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court judge and Alabama Supreme Court justice know that his legacy would soon be forever interwoven with a new push by the school system to promote competitive debate teams at each of its school.

After dispensing of pleasantries and expressing gratitude to those who made the debate tournament possible, Daria then turned to the judge and informed him that the event will henceforth be known as the Judge John England Tuscaloosa City Invitational Debate Tournament. Saturday morning was the first debate tournament for TCS, with England serving as the kickoff speaker.

The Tuscaloosa City Board of Education and TCS also honored England by putting his name on its Best Orator Award.

Watch the moment Judge England was informed that the tournament would now bear his name

"Well what I'll say is I can't wait to tell my children, but it was quite a shock and I'm basically speechless and I really appreciate the honor," England told Patch. "My heart is with Tuscaloosa City Schools and it's been there for a while, so anything I can give and for them to do that, all I can say is thank you."

State Rep. Chris England, who is the chair of the Alabama Democratic Party, has followed in his illustrious father's footsteps as a champion for civil rights, criminal justice reform and equality.

Rep. England shared the video from Tuscaloosa Patch showing his father surprised with the news and thanked the school system for honoring his career.

"I may be a little bit biased, but my dad is a great great man," he said.

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.