Workshop Details:
June 22-26, 2026
12:30pm-3:30pm
Grades: 8th-10th
Cost: $425 ($375 for SLS families)
Registration opens January 5, 2026.
Workshop Description:
Begin your competitive speech and debate journey at SLS’ Introduction to Competitive Speech & Debate Camp.
Designed for rising 8th through 11th grade students with little to no prior experience, this camp provides a structured introduction to the world of competitive debate. Students will learn the fundamentals of public speaking, argument construction, and debate strategy while exploring multiple competition events, including Original Oratory, Extemporaneous Speaking, Congressional Debate, Public Forum Debate, and Parliamentary Debate. Each event will be introduced, and students will prepare for a mini-tournament to apply what they have learned. Throughout the week, individualized coaching and feedback will help students gain the confidence and skills needed to compete in their chosen events during the upcoming speech and debate season, all in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
Led by SLS Debate Coach Bryce Piotrowski, a two-time National Speech and Debate Association Diamond Award recipient who has coached multiple Texas State and NSDA National Tournament champions, this camp gives beginners the strong foundation they need to succeed in competitive speech and debate.