Introductions

Hello, my name is Gage Giffin and I'm assistant coach for Sedgwick High School's Debate and Forensics Team. This is my second year coaching, but I debated in high school for three years and my partner and I were the 321A Policy Debate Champions for 2023.

I know the effort it takes to be here. I commend you all for the hard work and dedication to be here. That said, we are here above all to have fun. Have a good round and may the odds be ever in your favor...

Policy

Judging Style - I am primarily a stock issues judge, but also can accept and vote on policy. No matter what though, the key to my vote is to explain your arguments and explain how I should vote. Run anything you want, but at the end of the day, explain it to me like I'm a toddler. Why do your arguments beat the opposition and why should I vote for you?

Speed - I would say I prefer a medium speed to listen to. However, I can manage with faster debates if that is what I'm given.

Evidence - If possible, please provide evidence to me. I enjoy reading along with the debate.

Kritik - I've never liked Ks. There's your warning if you run those. If you decide to, take the time to fully explain your K and what it means for this debate. Otherwise, I will not vote on it.

Topicality - Topicality is a big issue for me. You have to be within the limitations of your resolved statement. To the NEG though, that only goes so far. If you try to run a T on general words like "the", you better have a good explanation to back it up.

Congress

My style and beliefs for judging Congress are still forming as I get more experience with the category. Overall, keep up the clash and relevance. You should be engaging in the chamber, making your voice heard, and convincing me that you could be a real senator or representative for the United States. Don't just say anything though. Use critical questions and arguments instead of just wasting everyone's time with pointless or repeated arguments. There is a lot on the docket and too little time. So make every bit of time worth it!!

**If you have any questions please ask me!!! If your question isn't on here it is because no one's ever asked me before. BE THE FIRST!