Do you need prior experience?
NO! You may not know anything about debate, but that’s okay. As long as you are 20 years old or older, you are eligible to judge. We will train you on the specifics at an orientation prepared just for you!

What is the time commitment?
We need a 3-hour commitment from you. This includes judge orientation/training, judging a debate round, and completing a ballot.

Can you review the schedule before committing?
Yes! The tournament schedule is available on the Schedule tab to the left of this page. Also, when you click on the Judge Registration tab at the top to begin the registration process, you will find all times available to judge, as well as the event during each time slot.

When do you arrive?
Please arrive one hour prior to your assigned judging time for orientation. If you arrive early, you can stop by our judge hospitality room and enjoy snacks and beverages!

What if you forget you registered?
You will receive a confirmation email once you've registered and a reminder will be sent a couple of days before the tournament.

Who may you contact for more information?
Please email Robin Axelberd ([email protected])

Want to know more about the debate events?

Debate
Debates are structured arguments or discussion with timed speeches. Students must prove their side of the issue within a given a time-frame and set of rules to guide the debate. Engaging discussion takes place as students cross-examine one another and a winner is determined based on the arguments presented. There are three different styles of debate:

Team Policy Debate
A two-on-two debate that focuses on a policy question for the duration of the academic year. This year’s resolution is: The United States Federal Government should substantially reform its policy in one or more countries in Europe. HERE for the rules and HERE for the ballot.

Lincoln Douglas Debate
A one-on-one debate that centers on the weighing of values held by individuals, societies, and governments. Debaters develop arguments based upon a values perspective. This year's resolution is: In the field of biomedical engineering, restraint ought to be prioritized over scientific advancement. Click HERE for the rules, and HERE for the ballot.

Parliamentary Debate
A two-on-two debate designed to engage the audience with advanced debate and speaking skills. Lasting only 45 minutes, students receive a current issue topic 20 minutes before the round. They prepare arguments that reflect general and specific knowledge they have acquired throughout their education. A sample resolution could be: This house believes that change is not progress. Click HERE for the rules and HERE for the ballot.

Sincerely,
Robin Axelberd
Tournament Director