I have had the opportunity to judge debate tournaments starting in 2019. My primary experience has been with Lincoln-Douglas debates, however I have judged other formats as well. My main goals as a debate judge are to give the participants my full attention (while taking notes), and to provide useful feedback. I appreciate debaters who are mindful of any time constraints and are courteous to themselves and to the other participants.

Do not speak too quickly as it does not allow me to fully grasp what you are saying. I understand that sometimes a lot of information needs to be shared, but not at the expense of understanding for those listening.

Pretend that I know nothing (but I do, I have a lot of judging experience) about your topic, which sometimes may be true, and explain what you think I may not know for clarity (i.e. abbreviations, acronyms, jargon, etc). Then convince me why your side should win.

I will be judging based on organization, supported factual arguments, delivery of information and how you interact with your opponent(s).

More specific paradigm will be given in round.

More of a tech. judge.

I prefer if you include me in the email chain or flash me your case. It makes it easier to flow, judge, and guarantees that I'll actually be able to judge your case. I can handle speed and spewing, but it's especially courteous to email chain or flash me if you're going to use speed. In the new online world of debate, the file share system works just fine, too.

No preference between progressive or traditional policy. However, word of warning, progressive policy is still based in the fundamentals of debate (unless you theory shell or off-case that) and so progressive policy is still expected to be in based in reasoning, argumentation, logic, and evidence.

Sup, I'm a big-time impact judge. No matter what event you are participating in, I look for your answer to my question: "Why should I care?" Weigh your impacts effectively and convincingly, and I'll be happy. Give me a reason why I should care. Why you should win. Who dies if you don't win? What kind of nuclear war will break out if your counterplan isn't implemented? Does this have real-world consequences? If I don't vote you up, will I be limiting you in spreading your ideals and values? These are all arguments that I've heard in the past (and debated, too), and depending on how you argue them, and how effectively you tell me what to do, I'll do it.

For those in the speech event world of debate specifically, I looove enthusiasm. But again, show me why I should listen to what you are saying, and why I should care.

Debate has shown me that these events you participate in during high school carry over and out into the real world. You'll one day understand that the only reason people listen to you is because you give them a reason to. You need to find out their values, their reasons, their ideals, and communicate those in a way where you and your audience connect. And that connection? It results in a win. :)

My background:

I did debate for 3 years in high school. (LD, policy, Pf) I am currently on a college debate team. I am completely fine with speed & “progressive” cases in all three events.

Ways to impress me

•Don’t say “umm”

•If you are spreading & I can’t understand you... I will say clear 3x. After that read at a normal pace.

•Clear flow. GO LINE BY LINE.

• Be clear & specific about your arguments. I will ask to see cards if necessary.

•Be polite. Everyone loves a salty round but the brightline is set between being a smarty pants & a total jerk.

I competed in Forensics in high school and in college and have judged ever since. So... that's like 25 years? Ouch. I mainly competed in individual events but I have judged plenty of debate.

I can handle speed but prefer a few solid arguments to the "everything + the kitchen sink" approach.

This is a debate. Use logic, reasoning, and research. But also - don't bring something up unless you can back it.

Ultimately, I'm just looking for clean arguments. Make it crystal clear why you should win.

Signposts are appreciated.

Keep in mind that I probably didn't know the resolution until the round started. I realize you are very familiar but ease me in and try to not use any acronyms without first explaining them. I'm smart and aware of current events but I am also a visitor in the debate realm and will need a little bit of explanation.

I will keep time if requested but appreciate not having to do so. (Other than prep time, but I'm happy if you keep track of that too.)

Have fun! I appreciate when the teams are clearly enjoying the debate!