I have been involved in speech since 1997. I was on the varsity team all four years of high school and was a hired judge from 2003-2009. I have been coaching speech at Grafton HS since 2009.

My favorite categories are poetry, dramatic interp, and storytelling!

*Storytelling: I LOVE to be entertained, and I am DEFINITELY that judge that smiles/laughs during a performance. Please ensure that you're engaging and animated. Don't be afraid to "go there" with big gestures and movements, and be ready for me to laugh at punny wordplay! Please keep in mind that clarity is key; by all means, do your different voices and such, but don't sacrifice clarity--if I cannot understand what you're saying as you're portraying a certain character...you've done yourself a disservice.

*Poetry: I competed in this category--this was my go-to, and it's the category that I most enjoy coaching/judging. Selection is very important to me, and I'll be "clocking you" on your ability to convey and evoke emotion. How do you connect with the piece(s) that you chose to read? Where's the relevance? I want you to move me emotionally--that's the goal. I adore spoken word as well as the classics, BTW, so no matter what you bring to the table, I'm #hereforit!

*Dramatic interp: In this category, I'm looking for range. I want to go on an "emotional journey" (pardon the cliché). I'm "all in" as a member of your audience. I want to either laugh out loud or have to break out a box of tissues! Also, don't forget the little nuances that add depth to your piece as well as to your character.

*Extemp/OO/Impromptu: organization is KEY! Rambling isn't cute--I don't necessarily need an outright "roadmap," but please know that I'll be outlining your speech as you're giving it. Please make sure that you have a structured (but entertaining), logical plan of attack in these speeches! You want to sound confident and genuine/relatable. Also think about the following in the presentation: is there a definite/clearly defined "call to action?'

Hope that this helps! I cannot wait to hear all of the incredible pieces/speeches that you've prepared!

Novice judge

LD: Convince me that your value is the better choice presented for the current debate topic. I value clear, persuasive delivery of organized and logical arguments presented in a respectful, professional manner.

PF: Convince me that your arguments on the current topic are stronger/more desirable than the opposing arguments. Present and support your arguments in a clear and organized manner and explain why/how they outweigh those of your opponents through direct clash. I value clear, persuasive delivery above speed and expect all debaters to be respectful and professional at all times.