Speech and Debate

Coaching Philosophy

Successful debaters and speakers find the truth and speak that truth. Debate events rightly focus on strategy, but strategy should never replace communication of truth.

When prepping, two types of knowledge are critical to communicating the truth in a way that wins rounds. First, students must understand the actual mechanics of the event. Second, students must develop a deep understanding of the nexus issue within that content. As I coach, I focus my efforts on building both types of knowledge. Students who work with Peek Performance can expect significant guidance on building strategic arguments and coaching focused on how to effectively communicate those arguments.

Successful interpers and platform speakers must do the same thing as debaters: find the truth and speak it. Success in IE’s should come not from tricks of blocking or overuse of pathos but instead from lived truth conveyed realistically and in an engaging manner.