2020 Cougar Classic

Azusa Pacific University - Nov 7 | Status: Completed

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Judge Philosophies

Andrea Ruiz - CSUF

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Bart Aikman - COC

Above all else, I look for a concise argument that has a clear, logical flow. Strong implementation of the principles of critical analysis (claim, support, impact, etc.) is also essential. Do not make unfounded logical leaps in your argument, utilize your sources, and be kind and generous to each other as competitors. Best of luck!

Collette Blumer - CSUF

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Fernanda De La O - APU

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Jackie Martinez - APU

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Jeff Samano - Fullerton College

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Joe Faina - LAVC

My judging philosophy is straightforward: I base my decision on who makes the best overall arguments in support of their side. Preponderance of effective argumentation.

Jordan Elliot - CBU

n/a

Kyle Duffy - COC

Kyle's Judging Philosophy

Hey there! I've been judging since 2016, mostly Individual Events like Prose, Drama, Informative, and Persuasive, so I'm more of a storytelling, logic-and-feelings kind of judge than a speed-and-theory one. Here's what I want you to know before we dive in:

The Please Dont's

  • Don't spread. Fast = fuzzy. I'd rather hear a select few of your BEST arguments, not all the ones you found in a panic five minutes ago.
  • Don't talk too fast. Talk to me like a normal human being. I have ADHD, the slower the better. I will unintentionally tune out if its a word avalanche.
  • Don't be mean. No personal attacks, no condescending vibes. Be passionate, not petty.

The Please Do's

  • Be clear and structured. Signpost your points like you're giving me GPS directions. Help me stay on the map. (I get lost easily)
  • Define your debate lingo. If you use fancy terms like "topicality" or "impact calculus", explain it. Pretend I'm 5 and I know nothing about debate (not far from the truth, lol).
  • Explain why it matters. Great logic is cool but tell me why your argument wins the round in the big picture final moment.
  • Time yourselves. I'm focused on you, not my stopwatch. Help me stay present.

Bonus Points (Not Really, But Spiritually)

These wont affect your score but they will make for a fun round:

  • Crack a joke? LOVE IT. Even if it flops, I respect the risk.
  • Feeling the feels? YES. Get emotional if the topic calls for it.
  • Use a weird metaphor about dinosaurs or robot lasers? CHEFS KISS.
  • Reference a fun fact, meme, or pop culture moment that fits? I'm here for it.
  • Make creative analogies or silly examples? I love those, bring 'em on.
  • Try something a little different? I'll always respect a creative risk. I'm rooting for you, not against you.

What I'm Really Judging

Two big things:

  • Did you convince me with logic and evidence?
  • Did you move me with passion and connection?

I'm not looking for perfection, I'm looking for people who care about their ideas and can make me care, too.

Final Words: Lets Make This Round Awesome!

Relax. Breathe. Be your weird, wonderful self. I'm fun. I'm fair. I believe that ALL students are MY students, so I'm rooting for you! Let's leave this round together thinking: Dang, that was actually fun!

Now go give 'em hell (respectfully).

Lana Mack - CBU

Ron Newman - MSJC

Sarah Swope - CBU

n/a

Taylor Stickle - Saddleback

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