For debate rounds I prefer a slower place without spreading, I can't score if I can't follow what you are saying. I like to be able to hear what case and claims you are making. I look for clear clash to flow the round. I always take notes while you are debating and make connections to each side's argument. I always keep a timer, however I encourage the debaters to time themselves as well. I have no preference over sitting or standing. I like to see a respectful round of good debate.

*FOR BRONX JV 10/16-10/18*

It's been a while since I've debated, so go heavy on the definitions and clarifications. I'm okay with anything you're BOTH comfortable with--this is JV, so no spreading if you both don't agree to it, etc. I was a pretty hefty framework debater, so I'll appreciate those rounds. Tech over truth in general. You'll get dropped if you say anything racist, homophobic, sexist, ableist, etc. I try to give speaker points liberally, bonus points if you squeeze in a Star Wars meme or reference. If you have any questions about the round, or debate in general, feel free to email me at zjl8@pitt.edu. The most important thing is that you're having fun and learning, so try to relax and enjoy the experience!

competitor 1986 - 1990

judge and coach 1995 - present

I am a traditional debate judge.

I do not like spreading in debate rounds. If your delivery is too fast or too unclear, I will not be able to flow vital information. If that information is not on my flow, I cannot make a decision based on it when you tell me that it is a voting issue.

I prefer clash, thoughtful logic, and clear weighing mechanisms in a round.

I expect to see an articulate, well reasoned debate.

One could consider me as both traditional parent judge and non-traditional parent coach. When it comes to experience, I have never participated in actual LD debate myself. However, I have a strong interest in philosophy, history and political science and have formal education in these subjects, even though I work as a physician. I am very much involved with coaching my daughter who participates in varsity LD debate. It means that I have spent some time on the topic that you are debating in front of me, and I am very well familiar with most of aff and neg arguments. I leave my opinions at home. However, it is your job as a debater to convince me that your arguments are stronger than your opponent's. Everything matters. You have to explain how you derived your values and criteria from the resolution, provide a framework, construct contentions which connect and re-enforce your framework, demonstrate superiority of your values and criteria via clashes and rebuttals. Non-traditional routes such as debate theory, disclosure, tricks, etc are fine but it will not grant you victory if it is your only strength in the round. You may talk as fast as you want but I have to be able to flow your round. I do not like spreading - it puts emphasis on your ability to talk fast ( perhaps beneficial to your potential career at auction (just kidding)) but takes away the essence of an interesting and constructive debate. If, in my opinion, you are talking too fast. I will let you know. I evaluate your speech skills and ability to think on your feet. You have to present yourself professionally and be courteous to your opponent. Throwing ideological labels and calling your opponent's arguments idiotic, racist, misogynistic, leftists, right-winged, etc will not win this debate. You have to prove your side. That is the point of LD debate. It is an honor to judge your round, and I take this job very seriously. Best of luck. I am looking forward to your debate.

I debated Lincoln Douglas for 4 years in high school; I was a state semi-finalist, finalist, NCFL octo-finalist, and three-time NSDA qualifier. I debated for three years at Brown University and I'm now the LD coach for Upper St. Clair.

I prefer moderate speed; arguments should be well articulated to me and to your opponent. I hope that anyone I'm judging prefers to win based on their merits, rather than speaking too quickly for their opponents' (many of which may be local competitors) to understand. I won't drop anyone for speaking quickly, but if you win because your opponent cannot understand you, I will reflect that with low speaker points.

I majored in philosophy and strongly believe that LD is and should be a value driven debate. I'm open to most any argument, but I ask that your arguments be intended to engage with the topic and make for a meaningful debate.

Please do not go out of your way to make your position intentionally inaccessible or confusing. I will vote according to the the flow; regardless of my personal opinions on your debating style.

Disingenuous and gimmicky debate approaches will be met with low speaks; show to me that you've researched and thought more about this topic than anyone else.