PFAT 2026 Returns to Anatolia and Marks a Historic Victory
Hosting the 54th Panhellenic Forensics Association Tournament, Anatolia welcomed 22 schools from across Greece - and celebrated its first Sweepstakes Cup win in 25 years.
From March 12-15, 2026, Anatolia High School proudly hosted the 54th Panhellenic Forensics Association Tournament (PFAT), welcoming 470 participants and 156 judges from 22 schools across Greece. Returning to Anatolia for the first time in nine years, after a long period during which the tournament was held online or hosted elsewhere, PFAT 2026 was more than a competition: it was a homecoming for our community.
This year’s tournament also marked a historic achievement for Anatolia. Our students earned first place in the Sweepstakes Cup, awarded to the school with the highest number of finalists, with nine finalists in total. It was Anatolia’s first Sweepstakes Cup victory in 25 years - a milestone that reflects not only talent, but also years of steady effort, dedication, and belief in the strength of Forensics at our school.
Anatolia students distinguished themselves across a wide range of events. In Original Oratory, Ellie Yiavis and Annie Zountsa delivered thoughtful and compelling speeches. In Comic Oral Interpretation of Literature, Vasiliki Marvaki captivated audiences with her wit and stage presence, while in Group Discussion, Katerina Siasiou stood out for her clarity of thought and composure.
On stage, Anatolia’s energy took a different but equally impressive form. In Dramatic Duet Acting, Elena Chavele & George Koios, Angela Byrou & Chara Mergia, and Ilias Angelidis & Jason Kouroumalis earned places in the finals with powerful performances. In Comic Duet Acting, Antonis Manitakis & Nikos Melas, along with Adrian Gutierrez Gonzalez & Lina-Louiza Michaelidou, impressed audiences with their creativity and chemistry.
Several of these performances were recognized at the highest level. Katerina Siasiou, Angela Byrou, Chara Mergia, Antonis Manitakis, and Nikos Melas received the prestigious First Among Equals distinction, awarded to the top performance in their respective categories.
PFAT 2026 was also a remarkable collective effort. Behind the scenes, 75 student volunteers devoted countless hours to ensuring that every aspect of the tournament ran smoothly, under the guidance of Elena Parissi and Elizabeth Daron. The opening ceremony, designed by Angelos Klonaris and Christina Pagidou, set the tone for the days that followed, with Angelo’s sketch and Christina’s flash mob creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
We are deeply grateful to our Head Coaches - Elena Bampali, Eva Chatzipappidou, Zoe Charalampous, Andrew Harrison, Jodi Hill, Helen Hondropoulos, Ioanna Lymbou, Ben McLellan, Efi Siskos, Chris Yates, and Margarita Ziglina - as well as to our many duet coaches, teachers, and alumni, whose guidance, encouragement, and belief in their students made this journey possible. Their work shaped not only the performances, but also the confidence with which students took the stage.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the English Department, whose members generously offered their time and expertise throughout the tournament. Alongside colleagues from across the school, they served in multiple roles as judges and organizers and provided essential administrative support from beginning to end.
Special recognition is also due to Lambrini Koufaki, Head of the Sweepstakes Tab Room, and Vasilis Stravarides, our ever-present Forensics anchor, whose contributions were invaluable. With composure, precision, patience, and kindness, they oversaw the coordination of all Sweepstakes events, managed the constant demands of scheduling and round logistics, secured and replaced judges throughout the day, and played a central role in preparing the finals.
Highlights from PFAT 2026
Watch the Opening Ceremony and the Finals.
What Visiting Schools Said
The success of PFAT 2026 was reflected in the results and in the experience of the schools that joined us on campus.
“Thank you to everyone who made this 54th tournament an amazing experience for everyone. Campion participants certainly had a great time: they made new friends and reconnected with Forensic pals; they enjoyed the hospitality and the lovely environment of your beautiful campus; and the atmosphere and fun of the great party on Saturday gave us hope that teens still like to get out and DANCE!”
- Head Coach, Campion School
“All our students and judges enjoyed the tournament immensely. It was run like clockwork - outstandingly efficient and on schedule! The host and volunteer team were very helpful and supportive throughout. They made sure all our participants felt comfortable and welcomed - from the brilliant opening ceremony, to the care that was taken with practice rooms, information, meals etc. This allowed the kids to focus on their performances and enjoy all aspects of the tournament. Absolutely wonderful Forensics experience for our team, and I am very grateful to you for making this happen!”
- Head Coach, HAEF
“The Anatolia team made everyone, students and adults, feel welcome and supported, and part of a very special community that celebrates the love for learning, the dedication to our students and our common passion for the Forensics values. It feels like the heart of Forensics beats at Anatolia!”
- Head Coach, ACS
PFAT 2026 will be remembered for the distinctions it brought to Anatolia and for the spirit it rekindled across our community. Beyond the final results lies something more lasting: the shared effort, the quiet dedication behind the scenes, and the sense of belonging created when students, teachers, alumni, and guests come together around a common passion. That is the achievement that will endure.
