Last changed on
Fri March 2, 2018 at 7:46 AM EDT
Hello,
As of currently, I'm an active PF debater and I've been debating for over 3 years. With this, I've competed against all types of opponents and met different types of judges, which is why I understand how crucial it is for debaters to read their judges paradigms and ether change or keep their debate style the same. With that being said, I hope this will inform you what kind of Judge I will be, and if you are unclear by anything stated here don't hesitate to ask before the round starts.
Firstly, I'm exceptional at flowing therefore, don't be afraid to spread in a round with me, as long as you are speaking in a coherent manner that I and your opponent can understand your speech. If I truly don't understand you and it's fairly rare that I don't, I will stop flowing in that moment until you're intelligible again. I understand you may have a lot of material to cover, but please be considerate of you're opponents and judges, it will really hurt you if neither party understands you, let alone your argument.
Secondly, I understand you want me to buy into your argument so you will be assertive in your position which is expected, however be mindful that I will not tolerate aggressive behavior especially an attack on your opponents character. Any attack made on a persons race, nationality, religion, or gender, will be taken seriously and your speaker points will be proof of it. Additionally, debate is about being persuasive, respectful, and articulate which is why some debaters receive such high speaks for exhibiting these traits.
Thirdly, I am a firm believer in allowing debaters to have crossfire to themselves, thus I will not be flowing. That being said, anything 'ground breaking' that happens in crossfire, must be brought up in rebuttals, summary or final focus. I will most likely never intervene, raising your voice is fine as long as we're in a private setting and not sharing a room with other debaters but screaming won't get you too far.
Now when it comes to the argument itself, please weigh your arguments; tell me why that your point is important, and emphasize your impacts so judges can clearly flow them throughout the round. Anything mentioned in Final Focus, should be derived from Summary, anything new will not be considered.
Finally, it would be easy to say to have confidence in oneself, because debates can be nerve-racking, but I am a very easy going, approachable person and I have a pretty good sense of humor, so don't be too nervous. Being confident will put you and your partner at ease, and will help me buy into your case. I won't roast your whole argument if I give any feedback, but please take any suggestions I make as constructive criticism, because debate is about learning, improving, and adapting but most importantly to have fun! Lets make the round fun and lively, as well as a learning experience for us all!
Good luck!!