Tourneys & Trips

Participation in speech and debate is not an absolute privilege. This privilege is extended to students who are willing to commit to developing their talents and skills to their ultimate level; therefore, the privilege of participation in speech and debate is extended to those who meet and maintain the expectations outlined in the WCS Student Handbook, WCS Speech & Debate Team Code of Conduct, the OSDA Ethical Standards, and NSDA Code of Honor.

Overnight trips are more than staying in a hotel and competing. As a member of our program, you are also by proxy an ambassador for our program, school, and community. It is an honor and a privilege to represent yourself in these capacities, so our expectations for team members are elevated during these trips.

SELECTION CRITERIA

To ensure equitable participation and the financial sustainability of the program, students attending the National Tournament must meet the team’s established fundraising requirement. Families may fulfill this obligation through fundraising participation, a financial contribution equivalent to the assigned goal, or assisting with team judge obligations (credited at $25 per day).
All requirements must be completed by the stated deadline to maintain eligibility.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• Must be in 8th grade or compete in a partnered event with an 8th grader

• Demonstrated commitment to the activity, including intent to compete at the HS level

• Demonstrated maturity in handling success and adversity

• Demonstrated team-centered attitude

• Must have completed at least one full year of competitive experience on the team

ACCOMPLISHMENT BOOKMARKS

     A First-year competitor must:

1. • have an NSDA Degree of Excellence or higher 

   • attend the state tournament (barring illness or unforeseen circumstances), and compete in the final round (or debate equivalent-top 8), at the OSDA State Tournament.

A Second-year competitor must:

• have an NSDA Degree of Distinction or higher

• attend the state tournament (barring illness or unforeseen circumstances), and compete in the final round (or debate equivalent-top 8), at the OSDA State Tournament.

Final decisions will be made jointly by the middle and high school head coaches based on eligibility and overall financial impact, based on tournament location and associated costs.