Spartan Speech Tournament: Try Out Public Speaking

In 2004, a young senator by the name of Barack Obama delivered a speech so powerful that many now recognise it as the defining moment that paved the way for his inauguration four years later. 

At a time when the uncertainties and fear of 9/11 still lingered, and war in Afghanistan raged on, his words offered a message of hope and unity for the American people. Fast forward 21 years to 2025, and we witness a stark contrast–a breakdown in discussions between Trump and Zelensky, wagering the fate of millions in the process. Whether it’s 21 years in the past or the future, one thing remains clear: the ability to express ideas persuasively is invaluable, both in everyday life and in the realm of politics.

The skill of public speaking and debating is not only useful for trying to convince others of your ideas, but more importantly, to better understand your audience and the beliefs of those around you. After all, it is impossible to build compelling arguments without first acknowledging the counterarguments that may lie ahead. In doing so, many find that their original beliefs are shifted in the act of broadening their horizons, creating a more nuanced understanding of the world. Furthermore, in defending your ideas, you’ll learn to cross-reference and synthesize evidence—skills that sharpen both critical thinking and writing. Beyond that, public speaking builds confidence, helping individuals become more comfortable voicing their thoughts and engaging in meaningful conversations.

The Sentinel Speech & Debate Club is an excellent place to begin exploring public speaking and debate. Meeting weekly on Wednesdays in Room 206, the club supports a range of goals, from preparing for competitive tournaments to simply gaining valuable experience. The club has proudly led its team to numerous events, including tournaments hosted by UBC, regional qualifiers, and provincial championships. In March, the club hosted a debate tournament with 35 participants, awarding $20 gift cards to the top 10 finishers. 

On June 4th, Sentinel will once again host a public speaking competition, the Spartan Speech Tournament.

The Spartan Speech Tournament is a beginner-friendly public speaking tournament that will take place on June 4th, 3:30pm to 8:30pm at Sentinel. With a registration fee of $5, free pizza dinner is provided for, as well as medals for the top 10 speakers and certificates for winners of specific categories. 

Unlike debates, this tournament focuses on speeches rather than direct competition, making it an ideal, low-pressure opportunity to try public speaking with friends. The event includes four rounds: two prepared speeches—either original or excerpts from literature—and two impromptu speeches. In the latter, participants choose one of three topics and deliver a speech of up to five minutes on the spot. 

For more information, visit the Sentinel Speech & Debate Club during its Wednesday meetings in Room 206 or follow them on Instagram at @sss_debate_club. Those not interested in competing can also volunteer during the event and receive graduation volunteer hours.