Speech & Debate Camp
Get ready for an unforgettable week of Speech and Debate Camp with Ethan Tong and Patrick McDonald (debate), and Seva Swan and Andrew Higashi (speech) —our powerhouse alumni coaches! They’re bringing fresh energy, expert insights, and a passion for teaching that will inspire both new and experienced students.
Camp Options
- July 28 – 31 – 4-Day Speech and Debate Camp Package, $350
- July 28 – 30 – 3-Day Debate Only Camp, $300
- July 31 – 1-Day Speech Only Camp, $85
DAILY: 9 – 4 PM
LOCATION: International Church of Oahu (20 Dowsett Avenue)
AGES: 12-18 years old
What to Expect
Debate
- Dive into the new debate resolutions and sharpen your critical thinking.
- Research, learn, and grow alongside fellow students in a dynamic and FUN setting.
Speech
- Pick up key tips to level up your speech game for the season ahead.
- Build your confidence as a speaker through FUN, engaging activities.
Both Debate & Speech Camps
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- Learn the fundamentals of speech and communication.
- Tailored sessions for beginners — no experience needed! Just bring your enthusiasm.
- Engaging, high-energy coaching that will leave you motivated for the season ahead.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or brand new to speech and debate, this camp is designed for YOU! Don’t miss out—it’s going to be a blast! We can’t wait to see you there!
*We are pleased to announce that a limited number of scholarships are available for families with financial need. Please contact [email protected] for more information.
Our Coaches
Ethan Tong has coached for seven years after a decorated high school career that included 2 National Oral Advocate awards and 15 top-3 placings. He’s coached over 1,100 private sessions, over 400 students, 13 clubs, and 27 debate camps. In addition to his work as a coach and author for Lasting Impact!, Ethan has founded three companies: a Moot Court coaching organization in 2020 (Blackstone Moot Court); a sourcebook company in 2025 (RexRegis Publishing); and a nationwide Moot Court League in 2025 (the High School Moot Court Association). His coaching philosophy is that good debaters are good teachers, and he believes that all students are capable of mastering the subject any given year. He aims to make this year’s camp even better than last year’s (which was the best camp he had taught last year!).
Patrick McDonald is a national champion debater and coach. A graduate of Hillsdale College, he begins law school at the University of Notre Dame this fall. With titles in events including Extemporaneous Speaking, Persuasion, and Moot Court, Patrick brings award-winning experience — and a passion for clear, compelling communication — to every session.
Seva Swan, a five-year NCFCA competitor, has competed in Team Policy Debate and Moot Court, as well as Extemporaneous, Impromptu, Apologetics, Informative, Persuasive, Duo, and Open Interpretation. He has coached with Honolulu Speech and Debate Club for two years and writes for the RexRegis Sourcebook. Seva is passionate about helping students think critically and communicate truth with both clarity and grace.
Andrew Higashi has competed in Moot Court, Team Policy, and Lincoln-Douglas, along with Apologetics, Extemporaneous, Impromptu, Persuasive, and Informative. For the past two years, he has coached with Honolulu Speech and Debate, helping students grow in both confidence and skill. This fall, Andrew heads to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott to study Aeronautical Science — but first, he’s ready to kick off camp and help students hit the ground running this season.
Join Us!
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or brand new to speech and debate, this camp is designed for YOU! Don’t miss out—it’s going to be a blast! We can’t wait to see you there!
*We are pleased to announce that a limited number of scholarships are available for families with financial need. Please contact [email protected] for more information.