If your local high school has a robust debate team, I would definitely try to become involved. Get friendly with the Middle school coach too. Be sure to figure out what style(s) of debate they do. It's like training for Softball might not help much if you are going to be competing in a Baseball league.
As for speaking opportunities, I think that best way for a child of this age to get comfortable with public speaking is to do a research oriented educational public service project and learning to present her findings to the public. Destination Imagination, Oddessy of the Mind, and I think first Lego leauge also have an oral presentation aspect.
Good luck! And take a look at those high school debators before judging your DD too harshly, ok?
Grinity
