The Valdosta High School Speech and Debate Team recently represented both Valdosta High School and the state of Georgia at the 2026 National Speech & Debate Tournament held in Richmond, Virginia. This year marked the program's 11th consecutive appearance at the prestigious national competition.
Hosted annually by the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA), the National Tournament is the largest academic competition for high school students in the United States. The tournament brings together thousands of the nation's most accomplished competitors, as well as students from international programs around the world. Only approximately the top one percent of speech and debate students nationwide earn the opportunity to compete at the National Tournament.
Representing Valdosta High School in Richmond were:
World Schools Debate – The Georgia Southern Peach District Gold Team consisting of Aeryal Hall, Delancey Hsu, and Sophia Moore. Competing against teams from across the United States and abroad, the trio finished preliminary competition with an impressive 3-3 record.
Humorous Interpretation – Tinson Trieu
International Extemporaneous Speaking – Christopher Hall
Program Oral Interpretation – Nylah Stallworth
United States Extemporaneous Speaking – Bhavi Patel
In addition to competing in their primary events, Valdosta students also participated in supplemental events, including Prose/Poetry Interpretation and Extemporaneous Commentary, further demonstrating the breadth and versatility of the team's talents.
"This tournament represents the culmination of an entire year of preparation, practice, and competition," said Valdosta High School Speech and Debate Coach Pam Childress. "Qualifying for the National Tournament is a tremendous accomplishment, and our students represented Valdosta High School with excellence, professionalism, and determination."
Assistant Coach Hien Templeton, who attended and judged at her first National Tournament this year, reflected on the experience. "Judging at my first National Tournament was an incredible experience," Templeton said. "It was inspiring to watch some of the nation's best students compete and to see firsthand the dedication, talent, and passion these competitors bring to speech and debate. I was especially proud to watch our Valdosta students represent their school and community with such professionalism and poise."
While in Virginia, team members also had the opportunity to explore the nation's history through a visit to historic Williamsburg, enriching their educational experience beyond competition.
The Valdosta High School Speech and Debate Team continues to establish itself as one of Georgia's premier programs, and its 11 consecutive national tournament appearances reflect the dedication and hard work of its students and coaches. The team's continued success exemplifies the spirit of Valdosta City Schools and its commitment to excellence through the district's motto: "Believe in the V."
About the Valdosta High School Speech and Debate Team
The Valdosta High School Speech and Debate Team competes in a variety of speech and debate events through the National Speech & Debate Association and the Georgia Forensic Coaches Association, providing students with opportunities to develop critical thinking, public speaking, research, leadership, and advocacy skills while preparing them for success in college, careers, and civic life.