Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp Debuts at TA
May 13, 2025
This summer, Thetford Academy and Hanover High School debaters have teamed up to launch the Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp. The camp, hosted on campus at TA, is a week-long program designed to help students build confidence, sharpen their public speaking, and develop strong critical thinking and argumentation skills – all in a fun and welcoming environment.
UVSDC is led by high school debater Daniel Mann (TA) and Oliver Benedict (Hanover), both rising seniors and leaders on their respective debate teams, with debate coaches Kristen Downey (TA) and Corin Benedict (Hanover) directing. Open to all rising 7-10th graders in the Upper Valley and beyond, UVSDC is geared toward anyone interested in learning debate – and experienced debaters, too. With plenty of team activities and hands-on practice, UVSDC is an immersive experience valuable for student debaters at every skill level.
With UVSDC, Mann and Benedict hope to share their passion for debate and give participants the tools they need to analyze information, craft persuasive arguments, and speak with clarity and conviction. By the end of the week, UVSDC campers will:
- Gain confidence in public speaking
- Learn the structure and strategy behind Public Forum Debate
- Practice impromptu speaking and constructive argumentation
- Receive feedback from experienced debaters and coaches
- Participate in a fun, low-pressure final tournament
UVSDC dates: August 4–8, 2025
Cost: $200
Eligibility: Rising grades 7–10
Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
To learn more or to register for UVSDC, email [email protected].