Get güd.

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I am a parent judge but generally will follow the flow.

You may sit or stand to present but both teams will do the same. I prefer you to time yourself but I will keep a watch.

If you are going to speak fast, you will also need to speak very clearly so that I can follow you. I can't judge something I can't follow.

You may use an off-time road map to state the sequence of your argument but do not use it to make your case.

Don’t be rude and use offensive words.

Please take turns and don’t interrupt during cross.

I prefer clear, logical and well-explained arguments.

Theory or K's:

I know nothing about theory but if you explain so I understand it then go for it.

I competed in debate through both at the high school and college levels. Since then, I have worked with a couple of debate teams, most recently with my two teens who compete. I have judged many Lincoln Douglas and PF debates (novice / JV and Varsity levels.) I was a policy debater in my competition days so, I do know how to flow and follow arguments.

I am like a vigorous clash of issues and I am not a fan of accusations from one side that the other has violated some unwritten technical rule. Please, debate the resolution, counter the opposition’s claims, and respond to attacks. I do like interesting analysis and interpretation of the resolution, but please have it make sense. I am not a fan of spreading and will stop flowing if you are speaking to fast to be understood. If I can’t flow the debate, I assume that neither can your opponent. I can accept “fast” but it must be understandable and at a rate I can flow.

I love to see debaters use cross-x in a manner to lead their opponents down a road, only to find a dead-end with an ambush ready for them. In cross, lead your opponents with intentional questions to direct them where you want them and make your points! Please keep up with current events. I am impressed when debaters understand the issues they are debating and they can relate to current world events. A debate plan must make common sense and most judges read news and keep current. Know your topic!

Lastly, be courteous and respect your opponents. The winner of the debate will be the side that has the most persuasive arguments for/against and makes the most sense.

I debated in the late 90's. I believe in the Value Premise and Criterion. I think there should be clash. Rounds should be in a conversational speed. If I am yelling clear, I am missing an argument. I will stop flowing. I am not a blank slate judge nor will I drop someone for dropping an unreasonable argument. The last speeches are for providing voters and writing my ballot. If there is no connection back to the VP/ your position, I feel there is no ground for me to vote. I do not vote for Kritiks. I do believe a discussion with a debater about the round is ok. I think understanding points of view helps with communicating your cases in later rounds. I will not switch my decision.

Debate how you want to debate, and I will evaluate your arguments to the best of my ability. Most important: have fun.