Questions?
For more information, contact: Deborah Bonner, DTM, Program Quality Director: programquality@district10.org
Toastmasters speech contests are a tradition, where members accelerate their speaking skills.
Need to plan a contest? Check out this video to learn how (and check out the downloads below the videos)
Judging a contest? Check out this video to learn what’s involved:
Planning – Downloads and links
START HERE: Contest organizers’ checklist:
Contest Roles and Responsibilities
International Speech Contest Kit
Table Topics Speech Contest Kit
Chief Judge Briefing Checklist (updated for 2025-2026):
Chief Judge Script (updated for 2025-2026)
Contest Master Script for Contest Day (updated for 2025-2026):
Contestant Briefing script (updated for 2025-2026):
Contest Levels of Progression
Contests begin at the club level, then advance to Area level, then to Division level, and finally District level!
Winners of District-level International Speech competitions are eligible to advance to Regional quarter finals, and may have the opportunity to participate in the World Championship of Public Speaking at Toastmasters Annual International Convention!
For Contestants
Before the Contest
- Provide timely information to Officials
- Attend District Training (or watch provided videos)
- Attend Contestant’s Briefing
Day of the Contest
- Arrive early for briefing
- Submit required forms to Contest Master
After the Contest
- Pat yourself on the back for competing!
- Thank the volunteers
For Officials
Officials consists of judges, timers, ballot counters, and sergeants at arms
BEFORE THE CONTEST
- Communicate timely with Contestants
- Gather all Contestant/Official details
- Attend District Training (or watch provided videos)
- Attend Official’s Briefing
DAY OF THE CONTEST
- Check your technology (if applicable)
- Arrive early for briefing
- Collect/Submit all required forms
AFTER THE CONTEST
- Determine Results and Announce winners
- Submit results paperwork for the next level contest (Form 1182)
- Thank the Volunteers
“Contests are your shortcut to growth”
Tricia Spayer, DTM, Past District Director
More videos and training
Contest Training Resources
Speech Contest Tutorials
Judges Training (Video)
Link to Chief Judge/ Judges’ Training
Links to more recordings and resources