I am a very classic judge and I expect everyone to be respectful to each other ( No slurs, name-calling, or unnecessary gestures). I have experience in LD, Extemp, Poetry, and Congress.

LD and Congress: No spreading, follow the rules, I do not accept any form of CX I do not have experience in this field and to judge a CX argument in an LD round is unfair to all involved ( If it is a CX argument I will not flow it because I do not know how to properly implicate it but I also have a strong belief that CX and LD are different events for a reason and should not be intertwined with one another). I judge based on how well arguments were developed and if the resolution is fulfilled. I do believe that you can win based on one argument and that evidence is crucial in making those arguments. In Congress, I expect an active chamber and for people to be prepared. I also greatly appreciate giving the speech nobody wants to give. Know Robert's rules of order and parliamentary procedure so that the round moves efficiently.

Speech ( Extemp and Poetry): I expect the function and purpose to be met for both. Ensure the question is answered. I will always offer time signals and I judge based on performance and having the objectives met, along with clarity.

Note: I believe that Speech and Debate as a whole is meant for education and if you don't know everything that is completely fine as long as you are trying and you gain knowledge along with experience. With that being said don't impede others' education and make Speech and Debate an unenjoyable experience. Be kind to one another, you maybe competing but kindness grows any and everywhere.

I’ll evaluate the round in whatever framework you place me in, and I’m fine with judging whatever form of argumentation you feel like presenting. However, I strongly prefer that you make that framework explicit — tell me what to vote on and why.

I want a balance between evidence/cards and analysis, especially later in the round.

Stylistically, I’m fine with speed as long as taglines and analysis are clear. If there is a clarity issue (not just speed but diction, volume, etc.), I won’t call clear or put down my pen; I'll continue attempting to flow and what doesn’t make it onto the flow won’t be evaluated — it’s your responsibility to make sure that I can understand you. **NOTE: in an online format, I’m much more lenient about speech clarity — if I can’t understand you due to mic issues, etc. I’ll let you know in the chat. I'll follow the TFA guidelines for tech time (10 minutes of tech time) for most rounds. Beyond this time, we will start running prep.**

I like very structured speeches with clear signposting, clear organization, delineation between arguments, etc.

Add me to the email chain — my email is colbymenefee@utexas.edu. Also feel free to email me if you have any questions about your ballot, the round, etc. Do not email me paradigm questions before the round — I’m glad to discuss my paradigm further and answer specific questions in-round, where your opponent can also hear my answers.

CX: I will keep an open mind about any sensible argument. CP should be non-topical and competitive. Please provide roadmaps and follow them. Signposting and structure are appreciated. Follow the roadmap established by the 1NR. Please don't say, "Next off-case" and then move to your next argument. Say, "Next, a Spending DA" or "Next a T violation on the word _____." Arguments should be properly structured and supported. A claim without warrants is not an argument. I am listening to your citations and evidence. I will not intervene or link your arguments for you. I will evaluate the round based on the arguments and under the framework presented. The negative should present offensive arguments on why the affirmative should not win the debate. Conversely, the affirmative should provide offensive arguments for why the negative's arguments should be rejected. Weigh arguments and give me a well-developed impact calculus and clear decision path. If I cannot understand you, I will say, “Louder” or “Clear.”

Congress: I have been judging Congress for 4 years.

I value logical over emotional pleas. However, a speaker should demonstrate passion for his/her position. Please do not read a pre-prepared speech verbatim. A speech should be organized, and claims should be supported by credible sources. A speech should be purposeful--defending, refuting, or qualifying points already in the record, clarifying and/or adding to the information on the topic--so please do not merely repeat information already presented by previous speakers. I use the usual parameters for judging a speaker’s presence, vocal quality, delivery, and eye contact.

LD: I value logic over emotion. Convince me that your value is the most relevant and most important. You can do this by communicating your message clearly. For me, it’s all about persuasion and each debater's ability to demonstrate a superior approach to his or her side of the resolution. Clear, concise language that is direct, to the point, and void of jargon is much appreciated. Arguments: I will listen to whatever you want to run. However, whether I'll decide based on those arguments depends entirely on how well you explain how each argument functions in the round. Communication/Speed: Speaking quickly is only effective when you form coherent sentences. If I can't understand you, I cannot give you the win. If you have a soft voice, please speak up. I need to hear every word regardless of your speed. I will say, "Louder" or "Clear" or “Slower” twice before putting down my pen as a signal that I am no longer flowing. I'm judging the quality—-not the quantity—-of your arguments, so take the time to make your arguments understood. Please signpost clearly. Be respectful to your opponent.