Washington Debate Academy

With more than 20 years of leadership experience in global technology organizations, Coach HG has spent his career communicating complex ideas, leading high-performing teams, influencing executive decisions and mentoring professionals at every stage of their careers.

He founded Washington Debate Academy because he believes debate and public speaking are essential life skills. His coaching approach combines encouragement with high expectations. He focuses on creating a supportive environment where students learn to express their ideas with clarity, structure, respect and confidence.

Coach HG has also authored The Money Sandbox, a wealth management book that helps readers think more clearly and holistically about wealth, enabling them to make confident decisions about money while understanding the risks.

Hi! I’m Avantika, an expert in Congressional Debate and Extemporaneous Speaking with 4 years of experience. Throughout my debate journey, I’ve earned 3 state-level awards, multiple district awards, and mentored younger debaters as they developed their skills and confidence.

What I love most about debate is the opportunity it gives you to find your voice. There is nothing quite like stepping onto the stage, sharing your ideas and growing with every round. As a coach, I help students become thoughtful speakers, confident leaders and lifelong learners while having a supportive environment where everyone feels encouraged to challenge themselves.

Outside of debate, I am also an international champion at the HOSA International Leadership Conference and a state winner of the Texas Science and Engineering Fair. In my free time, you’ll usually find me writing poetry in my notebook while listening to music (bonus points if you’re a Conan Gray or Olivia Rodrigo fan!!)

A senior at Interlake High School in Washington, Ananya is an experienced Speech & Debate competitor specializing in Lincoln-Douglas Debate and Original Oratory. She has advanced to elimination rounds at multiple national circuit and regional tournaments and earned a bid in Original Oratory.

Outside of S&D, Ananya likes to play badminton, listen to music and hang out with friends.

A high school junior with two years of competitive Speech & Debate experience, Coach Ridha specializes in Lincoln-Douglas Debate and Original Oratory. She has earned a Tournament of Champions (TOC) bid in Original Oratory and advanced beyond preliminary rounds at multiple local Lincoln-Douglas tournaments.

As a coach, Ridha focuses on research, evidence analysis, and case writing, helping students develop well-supported arguments and persuasive cases. She is passionate about making debate accessible and building students’ confidence as critical thinkers and competitive debaters.