Definition of a Novice & Open Debater

A novice debater is a debater who is in their 1st year of competition.  This includes both speech and debate.  So if the debater has had experience doing individual events they will have no eligibility for the novice category of debate and must be entered in varsity debate.  

An open debater can be any alumni, parent, or coach.  You do not have to be a registered member of a team and can be an independent entry for this event.  However, if you are a current high school member who is a senior and this is your last competition of the year you can enter this competition.