1. Debate background:

1. Judged High school debate for (9 years);
2. Assistant debate coach for 2 years.

2. Judging:

• I love flow and base my judgment on logical arguments, facts, science, etc.
• I deliberate on overall presentation of debaters-- i.e.-- argumentation + delivery

History (Humble brag commence) - Debated PF 4 years of HS through Harrisburg, relatively successful on the nat circuit, very successful SD debate circuit

1. my biggest critique on current PF debate is how unethical I have seen it be, with that being said it will be very hard to win my ballot as an unethical debater ie. lying, bullying, ect. -and if I see this as a real issue your coach will be notified so tread lightly-

2. I value the flow, I judge off the flow, the only way you can lose my ballot is if you lose the flow (Or ethically listed above) If there are judges on the panel that are lay I understand you choosing to go for their ballot as I did the same as a debater, I will still vote off of the flow first but do not let yourself get into the mindset that you cannot win my ballot

3. I love helping debaters understand why they lost or how to improve, ASK QUESTIONS PLEASE (love my time to shine haha). Definitely stop me after round and ask why you lost or how to improve or shoot me an email @ cassyherd02@icloud.com I promise you will get a hefty explanation of my ballot (Based on certain tournament rules I may not be able to if disclosure or feedback is not allowed but my inbox is still open after tournament or when you get w/l)

Tech stuff

4. I do not believe in sticky defense. ie. I will not just extend things that your opponents didn't respond to, you have to do the work for me and tell me what I need to extend and why

5. To critique myself, I am not good with names and dates so with your extensions remind me what it is they said that was so important so I can give you the extension

6. Please do a line-by-line with a roadmap rather than voters in summary/ FF, it is a lot easier to flow. If you choose to do voters I may not catch where you're at on the flow, if it doesn't make it to my flow its not voted on

7. Just calling something a turn doesn't make it a turn, with this you must explain why that specific argument wins you their impacts or a new impact you present, simply stating "They drop x y z turn" doesn't mean much to me, tell me what turn, why its so massive, and why it wins you the round for it to become a voting issue on my ballot

8. Lastly, impact calc. are you winning on magnitude, scope, clarity of impact, ect? If you don't tell me how I am voting then I have to interfere and make that choice myself which I don't like to do. If your judge has to interfere at all your job isn't done

Hello debaters,

I approach debate with a focus on substance and argumentation, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and effective case development. Here are key aspects of my judging philosophy:

1. Flow-Centric Evaluation:

   • I prioritize the flow as the primary tool for decision-making.
   • Debaters should clearly articulate and extend arguments throughout the round.
   • I appreciate organization and signposting to enhance the flow.

2. Impacts Matter:

   • I give weight to well-developed impacts that are linked to the resolution.
   • Impact calculus is crucial. Clearly explain why your impacts outweigh those presented by your opponent.

3. Technical Proficiency:

   • I value technical proficiency in debate. Solid understanding of debate theory and effective cross-examination will be rewarded.
   • However, I do not automatically vote on theory. Make sure to connect theoretical arguments to tangible impacts on the round.

4. Clarity and Signposting:

   • Clear, concise, and organized speeches are key. Clarity in communication helps me understand your arguments better.
   • Signpost consistently to help me follow your line of argumentation.

5. Adaptability:

   • I appreciate debaters who can adapt their strategy based on the flow of the round.
   • Flexibility in argumentation and the ability to adjust to your opponent's arguments will be recognized.

6. Framework and Weighing:

   • Framework is essential for framing the round, but it should be applied in a way that enhances substantive clash.
   • Effective weighing of impacts is crucial. Explain why your impacts are more significant in the context of the round.

7. Disinclination towards Theory Arguments:

   • I am not a fan of theory arguments. While I expect debaters to engage in substantive clash, relying heavily on theory arguments may not be as persuasive to me.

8. Respect and Sportsmanship:

   • Maintain a respectful and professional demeanor throughout the round.
   • I don't tolerate any form of discrimination or offensive language. Such behavior will have a negative impact on your speaker points.

9. Evidence Quality:

   • Quality over quantity. Well-analyzed and relevant evidence will carry more weight than a flood of less meaningful sources.
   • Reference your evidence appropriately and be prepared to defend its relevance.

Remember, this paradigm is a guide, and I am open to various debating styles and arguments. Adapt your approach to these guidelines, and feel free to ask for clarification on any specific preferences before the round begins.

I am a lay judge who will look to weigh the evidence in voting issues at the end of the round. I can handle moderate speeds if you speak clearly and fluently.