FAQs

No. A majority of our members start with no public speaking and/or debate experience.

Novices in each branch practice once or twice a week after school. Tournaments are on weekends, with most novices competing in at least three their first year.

Going to practice is free. We also take pride in not requiring competitors to pay to compete. However, we host Speakathon every year and receive generous donations from our donors (LAA, Lowell PTSA) to offset costs. 

Yes, but note overlapping practice dates.

Laptop/Computer. Policy debate recommends non-Chromebook laptops after the first semester. 

Formal clothes for tournaments. 

Pen & paper. Please let your director know if any of these materials pose a barrier to you competing. 

Each branch has a director and captains, who run after-school practices. Committed members will also be in contact with our specialized coaches. 

Local tournaments in the Golden Gate Speech Assoication (GGSA) circuit, with most tournaments being in the East Bay. Qualified competitors/teams compete at the California High School Speech Association (CHSSA) State Championship and the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA)’s National Debate Tournament.  

Committed members travel to compete in the national circuit to reach the University of Kentucky Tournament of Champions. 

Additional online tournaments and invitationals at Coach/Director discretion. 

Only Parliamentary and Policy debate are partner events. One will be provided for you if needed. You are still able to bring in your own partner if you would like.