Tournament Details

We look forward to hosting you at the 2026 National Speech and Debate Season Opener!

Tournament Invite Link
Schedule Link (7.28.26 update; still tentative)
Credit Card Payment Link

Dear Coaches and Competitors,

We are thrilled to welcome you to the National Speech and Debate Season Opener, taking place September 11 to 13, 2026, online and hosted by the University of Kentucky’s Intercollegiate Debate program. As the official launch of the TOC’s competitive season, this tournament sets the tone for excellence, growth, and community across our activity. We will be a full service tournament offering Congressional Debate, Lincoln-Douglas, Policy, Public Forum, Speech/IEs, and World Schools Debate. We are proud to offer distinct divisions for many of our events as well.

This tournament isn’t just the beginning of a new year, it’s where your Road to the TOC starts. Whether you’re returning with experience or entering your first round, we’re excited to provide a welcoming, competitive, and educational space where students sharpen their skills, connect with peers across the country and globe, and leave inspired to take on the season ahead.

All tournament details, including registration information, schedules, and best practices, can be found on Tabroom and in this invitation. If you have any questions, please reach out to our tournament team attournamentofchampions@uky.edu. We can’t wait to see the passion and preparation you bring to the online spaces this September.

Respectfully,
Kelsey Johnson
Tournament Director

New for 2026

1. ALL events will be held online. There will be no in-person divisions.

2. We will be hosting international breakout elimination rounds in World Schools Debate and Public Forum.

3. Judges in World Schools Debate will have an opportunity for judge training prior to the tournament.

Bid Levels

1. Congressional Debate - Tier 2 (up to top 16)

2. Lincoln-Douglas Debate - Quarterfinals

3. Policy Debate - Quarterfinals

4. Public Forum Debate - Octafinals

5. Speech Events - TBD based on entry numbers

6. World Schools Debate - Semifinals

Registration Information

1. Registration will open by or on July 1, 2026

2. Registration will close on September 8, 2026 at 11:59pm ET

Topic Areas

1. Congressional Debate - Legislation likely posted by August 21, 2026

2. Lincoln-Douglas Debate - Sept/Oct 2026 NSDA Topic

3. Policy Debate - 2026-2027 NFHS High School Topic

4. Public Forum Debate - Sept/Oct 2026 NSDA Topic

5. Speech - Extemp Areas and Impromptu Topics likely posted by August 21, 2026
   - Extemp Round 1: Science and Technology
   - Extemp Round 2: Europe
   - Extemp Round 3: Environment and Energy
   - Extemp Round 4: Asia
   - Extemp Round 5: United States 2026 Elections
   - Extemp: If an additional round needs to be added due to high entry numbers, that round's topic area will be Africa.

6. World Schools Debate - Motions likely posted by August 21, 2026