Our goal is to grow this tradition by making educational opportunities available to students that would have otherwise been inaccessible due to financial constraints.

 

We believe training in communication and public speaking plays a fundamental role in the growth and development of strong leaders across all professions.

 

We are eager to deepen and reconnect members of the speech, debate, and leadership communities, forge new relationships with those who also believe in the value of communication skills, and to provide scholarships and fellowships to students across the country.

 

THE TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS IS TURNING 50!

Celebrating 50 years of excellence in speech and debate.

April 22-25, 2022

Lexington, Kentucky

 

Dr. Patterson founded the "Tournament of Champions" in 1971 with the intention of creating an opportunity for bringing together the best debaters in the United States and creating an event that would serve as the pinnacle of the high school debate season.

During its first year, the Tournament of Champions hosted 64 teams in Policy debate. Today the Tournament has grown to include four divisions of debate and 7 events in speech. It draws students from all over the country and internationally as well.

 

 

THE TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS IS TURNING 50!

Celebrating 50 years of excellence in speech and debate.

April 22-25, 2022

Lexington, Kentucky