Talking about "how to do" something is great. Doing it is even better.
On the chilly Saturday morning of May 9, 22 College of Western Idaho (CWI) students gathered at Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) to compete in the Spring 2026 Rookie Speech and Debate Tournament.
The brainchild of Speech and Debate founding Coach and Associate Professor of Communication, Johnny Rowing, the tournament invites students from Argumentation and Debate (COMM 112) and Public Speaking (COMM 231) to apply the skills they have learned in a formal competition. Many students enjoy the experience so much that they choose to join the Speech and Debate Team through Intercollegiate Speech and Debate (COMM 114).
This spring, the intramural competition featured five rounds of debate, four rounds of speech competition, and plenty of pizza to keep participants fueled throughout the day.
Psychology student, Britany Kay, winner of a bronze medal in the event, reflected on her experience.
"The Rookie Tournament provided a brief view into the speech and debate world, reaffirming my belief that I had much room to grow, but also that I had much potential to do great things on the team,” Kay said.
A staple of the Communication Department from 2011-2019, the competition took a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic years. With Rowing’s return to coaching and increased campus space availability, the 2025-26 academic year provided the perfect opportunity to bring back the event.
"The energy of the competition is a thrill for me to witness,” Rowing said. “I am proud of the students. Seeing familiar faces, former members of the team, and students being supported and admired — that is the real magic of the day.”
It is impossible to run a tournament without judges and logistical support. The Spring 2026 Tournament was graciously supported by more than 40 people, including:
- 18 alumni
- Eight faculty members
- Seven current members of the CWI Speech and Debate Team
- Five CWI staff members
- Three work-study students
Ready to learn how to connect, influence, and lead? Explore Speech and Debate and Communication opportunities at CWI by contacting Julia Bennett at juliabennett@cwi.edu or Johnny Rowing at johnnyrowing@cwi.edu.
