I have been an educator for over fifteen years, and a Debate and Oral Interpretation coach for over five years. My primary concern is ensuring debaters learn skills that prepare them for the future. Here are three principles to keep in mind for your round with me:

Have fun. Debate in a way that you can keep your cool. Don't stress out - it's all good. We're just throwing some ideas around to see what sticks, something philosophers have been doing forever.

Learn lots. Debate in a way that shows you have learned something valuable. I want to hear clear, concise, thoughtful arguments with effective and logical counters to your opponent. Please note that I have a slight hearing impairment that makes it difficult for me to follow spreading. I appreciate clear signposting. Overall, I prefer quality over quantity, and if you do a better job of making your case and defending it, you win.

Be good. Debate in a way that shows respect for your opponent and the judge. No one at this competition deserves to be treated disrespectfully.

That's it! Have fun, learn lots, be good!