First, I want to congratulate you on participating in debate! This is a challenging but rewarding activity, and one that will serve you beyond high school and college.

I am the coach for Abilene High School. This is my first year as a Speech and Debate coach. I also teach speech, drama, film studies, debate/forensics.

I did not participate in debate in high school or college, however my background is in speech and communication, and I bring that perspective to my judging. This is a communication activity, and my judging will be influenced by how well you present yourself and your argument. Please be respectful of your teammates, opponents, and judges. Please do not speed talk. This is not a race! I would rather you speak clearly and slowly so that I can understand you and your argument.

I would like to hear stock issues in your argument.