Wisconsin Debate Coaches' Association

The Wisconsin Debate Coaches’ Association (WDCA) is a group of high school debate coaches who work with students to become effective debaters. Our group sets the competition standards and policies for the interscholastic debate tournaments in which our teams compete.

Debate teaches students how to research, develop defensible positions, take and organize notes, and argue persuasively. We are proud to promote this activity in schools.

Membership dues increase on December 1st, 2024. Make sure your check is postmarked by December 1st to avoid additional fees. Check the list below to see if we have received your payment:

The Season is in Full Swing

As the 2024 Season heads into the closing weeks, registration for state will open on December 1st.  Don’t forget to get your membership form filled out and dues paid by that day before the fees go up.

Starting a Team?

The Wisconsin Debate Coaches’ Association is always welcoming new members, and it’s really easy to join! Simply fill out the membership form, and we will connect you with people who can help you start a team.

Start debate in your school today!
Lincoln-Douglas Resources

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

September/October Resolution

Resolved: The United States ought to require that workers receive a living wage.

What is Lincoln-Douglas Debate?

Lincoln-Douglas debate is a one-on-one format of debate in which a student will explore issues under the lens of philisophical values such as justice or morality. The Wisconsin Debate Coaches’ Association offers this form of debate in both a JV and Varsity division.

Policy Resources

Policy Debate

2024-25 Policy Resolution

Resolved: The United States federal government should significantly strengthen its protection of domestic intellectual property rights in copyrights, patents, and/or trademarks.

What is Policy Debate?

Policy Debate is a team event in which students will discuss policy implementations of a resolution. Typically, the Affirmative will present a plan, and the Negative will argue why the plan should not be implemented. The Wisconsin Debate Coaches’ Association offers Policy in Novice (which has a restricted novice packet), and Varsity.

Public Forum Resources

Public Forum Debate

September/October Resolution

Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially expand its surveillance infrastructure along its southern border.

What is Public Forum Debate?

Public Forum debate is at team event in which students will compete with a partner to discuss resolutions related to current events. The Wisconsin Debate Coaches’ Association offers Public Forum in both JV and Varsity divisions.