I have had two daughters take part on their high school Speech and Debate team. I think it takes a special talent to present yourself confidently and effectively. I will specifically be looking for strong evidence, no spewing, and a clear level of love for your event. Good Luck!

I spent four years on my high school speech and debate team and ended the my final season as the President of the team. I earned the highest rankings available in the NSDA before I graduated from high school. I enjoy judging and my paradigm is simple. The best speaker will always win. Be confident in what you have to say and do not spew or spread as it shows you cannot make tactful arguments in the amount of time you are given and have to resort to throwing out often times irrelevant information. I will flow the round so do not drop arguments. Make sure you are passionate about what you are doing and have done enough research to know about the topic and can speak about it in simple terms. Be kind to your opponent and make sure to have fun!

Be civil. Debate beyond your case. As you debate, interact with and include all of the information brought up in the round. Speak clearly, and organize your arguments in a clear and concise manner.