Historic Win for De La Salle at the 2026 ASD Impromptu Debating Cup
I am pleased to share an outstanding result from yesterday’s Auckland Schools Debating Impromptu Cup 2026.
From a field of 87 teams representing 27 schools across Auckland, our DLS debating squad produced our strongest-ever showing at the Impromptu Cup.
A massive congratulations to Elijah Wilson and Iosefo Tominiko, who made history for De La Salle by breaking 2nd overall after the preliminary rounds. They went on to win their Quarter-Final against ACG Parnell and their Semi-Final against Auckland Grammar, earning their place in the Grand Final against St Cuthbert’s.
In the Grand Final, Elijah and Iosefo delivered another high-quality, thought-provoking and robust debate to become the 2026 ASD Impromptu Cup Grand Champions.
For the first time in our college’s history, De La Salle College brings the ASD Impromptu Debating Cup to South Auckland.
Impromptu debating is an incredibly demanding format. Students have only 5 minutes to prepare a case before delivering their speeches, requiring them to think critically, communicate clearly and work effectively with their teammate under pressure. Our boys embraced that challenge and represented DLS with confidence, humility and mana.
A special acknowledgement also goes to Steve Roberts, who was awarded 5th Best Speaker (Leaders Reply), Elijah Wilson, who was awarded 10th Best Speaker, and Iosefo Tominiko, who was awarded 1st Best Speaker (Leaders Reply) at the prize-giving ceremony.
I would also like to acknowledge and commend all of our boys who represented DLS throughout the tournament: Xander Toailoa, Penetiketo Tupou, Teinakitea Sionetama, Frederick Leniu, Leato Collins, William Mafi, Frankie Truong and Steve Roberts.
A massive congratulations to Elijah and Iosefo, who have been debating non-stop, grinding their way all the way to the top. They were phenomenal this weekend.
Please congratulate Elijah and Iosefo if you see them tomorrow on their historic win.
Congratulations again to our DLS debating team. What an exceptional achievement for our college community.
God bless,
Mr Otto Wendt
