About the League

Our mission

To grow accessible, high-quality competitive debate — and to run tournaments that students, coaches, and judges can trust.

The Tri-State Debate League (TSDL) is a nonprofit dedicated to competitive high school speech and debate across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. We believe debate is one of the most valuable activities a student can take part in: it builds research, argumentation, public speaking, and critical-thinking skills that last well beyond high school.

Our work centers on three commitments — running excellent tournaments, developing the people who make the activity possible, and lowering the barriers that keep schools and students out. We hold ourselves to high standards of fairness, transparency, and organization at every event we run.

Nonprofit Status

A registered 501(c)(3)

TSDL is organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit. Every fee and contribution goes back into the activity — venues, judging, equipment, and keeping competition affordable for the schools we serve.

Because we are a recognized nonprofit, eligible contributions may be tax-deductible. Reach out for our EIN and giving details.

Donate to TSDL

501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Organization

Fair & Transparent

Clear rules, consistent pairings, and open communication before, during, and after every tournament.

Accessible

Strong novice divisions and affordable entry so new schools and debaters can join the activity.

Well-Run

Experienced tab staff, vetted judges, and events that start and finish on schedule.

The Activity

The formats we offer

TSDL competition spans four debate formats. Most are offered in both Open and Novice divisions; Congressional Debate is offered in the Open division.

Policy / CX

Cross-Examination Debate

Teams of two argue a single, research-intensive policy resolution across an entire season, advancing detailed plans and clashing over evidence. Offered Open and Novice.

Lincoln-Douglas

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

A one-on-one format focused on values, ethics, and philosophical frameworks. Rewards clear reasoning and principled argument. Offered Open and Novice.

Public Forum

Public Forum Debate

Partner debate on timely current-events topics, argued to be persuasive to an informed general audience. Offered Open and Novice.

Congress

Congressional Debate

Students draft, sponsor, and debate legislation in a simulated legislative chamber, scored on speaking and parliamentary skill. Offered in the Open division.

Leadership

Who runs the league

Sohail Jouya

Tournament Director

Director of the Tri-State Debate League and Director of Debate at Poly Prep, Sohail oversees tournament operations, tabulation, and judge development across the circuit.

Join Our Team

Coaches, Judges & Volunteers

The league runs on a community of coaches, judges, and volunteers. If you'd like to get involved or judge at a TSDL event, we'd love to hear from you.