Make Plans to attend University School Sunvitational January 7-9, 2011

You are cordially invited to attend the third annual University School Sunvitational held on the campus of Nova Southeastern University on January 7-9, 2011. The administration, coaches, parents, and students of University School are excited to host this tournament and appreciate the support of schools attending for the first time and those who are coming back again for another great experience.

Last year we were thrilled to have competition from California, Massachusetts, Ohio, Maryland, and of course Florida.  The tournament is truly a national event with premier competition in speech and debate.  Aside from all of that you still may be asking yourself …

Why should we attend? We are aware of the difficulties involved in making choices about travel and that budgeting for any tournament you attend is a challenge. We are confident that we have put together an optimal tournament and educational experience any student would enjoy. Some of the highlights include the following:

  • This year the Sunvitational has the following designations for the Tournament of Champions:
    • Finals bid in LD
    • Semifinals bid in PF
    • Top 6 in Congress receive bids
  • Seminars offered in the areas of speech and debate on Friday morning/early afternoon so that kids can leave with lectures from experts in the field. These seminars will be held at our tournament hotel – The Renaissance Plantation. They will take place from 9am until 2pm.
  • Efficiency in our tabulation process. We will have a tab staff that is experienced and effective so that the tournament can run smoothly.
  • Scholarships to all of Summit Debate’s institute offerings: LD@National Debate Forum, PF@National Debate Forum, National Speakers’ Forum, Interprod, Lyceum, and EXL Extemp.
  • Our championship students will receive amazing awards designed, created and decorated by a local Florida resident and artist. We will also have themed awards that represent Florida for top speakers and team sweepstakes.
  • We are flying in guest judges to ensure that students get exposure to highly trained and respected critics in the activity. We will fly in judges for speech and debate! This means we will have a limited number of judges available for hire – you will need to request early.
  • Sunny Florida in January! A treat for anyone in many parts of the country. Booking flights into Fort Lauderdale will generally get you the best rate; however, Miami and West Palm Beach airports are not too far away either.

The tournament will feature competition in Lincoln-Douglas Debate (TOC bids), Public Forum Debate (TOC bids), Policy Debate, Legislative Debate (TOC bids), Humorous Interp, Dramatic Interp, Oral Interp, Duo Interp, Original Oratory, Declamation, and Mixed Extemporaneous Speaking. Guidelines for events can be found by clicking on the Event Information tab.

Please let us know what we need to do to assist in you being able to attend. We love the activity and want to make this tournament not only one of competitive excellence, but also an educational experience for all.

Regards,

Steven Schappaugh

Director of Forensics