Tournament Details

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

Details are still being confirmed, but we do want to share some important information prior to registration window opening.

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 likely 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

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