Coach for 20 years- judged all events. Important- link of claims back to value structure, moderate speaking pace is very much appreciated. I flow rounds and use the flow to guide my decision but do not drop debaters just for not extending all arguments cleanly. I like to hear logical fallacies called out as much as I like to hear logic employed in a round.

Hi I'm Agustin (He/Him). I did Congressional, Lincoln-Douglas, and Public-Forum Debate at Northwest Guilford High for 3 years. I did a year of Parliamentary and Social Justice Debate at Appalachian State University. I am now at UNC Chapel Hill studying Psychology and Data Science.

Speed:

Spreading is heavily discouraged. If I am not able to understand your argument then it does not matter. Make sure you clearly articulate what you are saying.

Important Things:

1. Don't be a jerk or a racist/sexist etc. In order to build an inclusive space I have zero-tolerance for arguments and rhetoric that are exclusionary, harmful, or hateful.
2. You can be passionate and aggressive in the debate without being mean, some people are going to be more passionate about topics than others, let's make sure that we have fun and get to discuss the topic civilly.
3. Signposting is important and will help not only me but everyone in the room better understand what you are saying.

Congressional Debate:

In Congress, remember what matters is not the quantity of the information that you present but rather the quality of the information and your synthesis of it. Being active in chamber is important! The competitors that give great speeches and ask great questions will stand out to me. When speaking to and referring to your opponents, treat them with the respect and decorum expected in this event.

I debated in the late 90's. I believe in the Value Premise and Criterion. I think there should be clash. Rounds should be in a conversational speed. If I am yelling clear, I am missing an argument. I will stop flowing. I am not a blank slate judge nor will I drop someone for dropping an unreasonable argument. The last speeches are for providing voters and writing my ballot. If there is no connection back to the VP/ your position, I feel there is no ground for me to vote. I do not vote for Kritiks. I do believe a discussion with a debater about the round is ok. I think understanding points of view helps with communicating your cases in later rounds. I will not switch my decision.