About the League
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 middle and 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.
We hold ourselves to high standards of fairness, transparency, and organization at every event we run.
What We Do
Our Reach
More than fifty programs across the New York metro area have competed in TSDL tournaments, independent, public, charter, and religious schools from Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens, out to Westchester, Long Island, the Capital Region, and New Jersey, along with a growing group of private debate academies.
Also Competing
Independent debate academies that train and enter students without a single home campus.
Nonprofit Status
TSDL is organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit. Fees go toward the real costs of running excellent tournaments, from experienced tab staff and qualified judges to venues and equipment, and we work to keep 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.
501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt OrganizationClear rules, consistent pairings, and open communication before, during, and after every tournament.
Strong novice divisions and affordable entry so new schools and debaters can join the activity.
Experienced tab staff, vetted judges, and events that start and finish on schedule.
The Activity
TSDL competition spans four debate formats. Most are offered in both Open and Novice divisions; Congressional Debate is offered in the Open division.
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.
A one-on-one format focused on values, ethics, and philosophical frameworks. Rewards clear reasoning and principled argument. Offered Open and Novice.
Partner debate on timely current-events topics, argued to be persuasive to an informed general audience. Offered Open and Novice.
Students draft, sponsor, and debate legislation in a simulated legislative chamber, scored on speaking and parliamentary skill. Offered in the Open division.
Get Involved
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.
Start with our FAQ for quick answers, or reach out any time. We're glad to connect with coaches, judges, and partner organizations.
Read the FAQ Get in Touch