Charger Challenge

2026 — Draper, UT/US

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Novice Spar

Event Description:

Event Overview

SPAR is a fast-paced, limited-preparation speaking and debate event in which individual competitors engage in head-to-head rounds addressing real-world issues facing the future of Utah.

This event challenges students to think critically about the problems their generation will inherit and to present clear, persuasive, and solution-oriented arguments in real time.

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Format

• Individual event (1 vs. 1)
• Each round features two competitors
• A judge/moderator provides two possible resolutions
• Coin flip:
• Winner selects side (Affirmative/Negative) or topic
• Opponent selects the remaining option
• 3–5 minutes of preparation time
• Limited notes allowed
• No internet/phones unless explicitly permitted

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Round Structure (14–18 minutes)

1. Affirmative Constructive — 2 min
2. Negative Constructive — 2 min
3. Crossfire — 2 min
4. Affirmative Rebuttal — 2 min
5. Negative Rebuttal — 2 min
6. Final Affirmative — 1 min
7. Final Negative — 1 min

⏱️ Time may be adjusted slightly based on schedule.

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Competitor Expectations

• Clearly define the issue and its impact on Utah
• Present 2–3 well-developed arguments
• Offer practical, forward-looking solutions
• Engage in direct clash with opponent arguments
• Maintain clarity, organization, and persuasive delivery

SPAR rewards effective communication and reasoning over heavy evidence or technical debate jargon.

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Judging Criteria

• Clarity — Are arguments easy to understand?
• Clash — Do competitors respond directly to opponents?
• Analysis — Is there depth and understanding of the issue?
• Solutions — Are proposals realistic and well-developed?
• Persuasion — Overall effectiveness and impact

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Rules & Guidelines

• Content must remain school-appropriate and respectful
• Limited prep notes allowed; no outside research during rounds
• Focus on substantive engagement, not purely performance or humor
• Judges should prioritize argument quality, reasoning, and communication

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Tournament Theme

Issues Facing Future Utah Voters

Sample Round Areas:

• Round 1: Utah’s High Cost of Living
• Round 2: Utah’s Environment
• Round 3: Personal Freedoms & Civics