Judge Philosophies
Abhi Wadhwa - Flintridge Prep
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Adam Durbas - HW
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Alex Kim - Westridge
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Alex Night - Tourn Judges
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Alexandra Smith - Tourn Judges
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Andrew Zepeda - Flintridge Prep
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Anna Liu - Flintridge Prep
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Anna Shcherbak Scoby - CL
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Arpitha Charlu - ModernBrain
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Asha Taylor - QDLearning
Ashley Magallon - Flintridge Prep
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Audrey Han - LYL
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Carlos Trelles - LYL
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Edward Hamel - Flintridge Prep
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Edward Rumbos-Perez - Westridge
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Edwin Ramirez - HW
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Emily Guo - LYL
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Frida Ramirez - Flintridge Prep
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Gary Yablon - HASCS
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Heather Platon - HW
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Janet Zhao - ModernBrain
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Jen Montgomery - CSUF
My Experience:
2.5 years of college individual events for OCC and CSUF (NFA/AFA)
INFO, POE, POI, IMP, PROS
3 years coaching elementary, middle school, high school and college-level forensics
- Coached and judged all IE events as well as Parli, POFO, IPDA, and a bit of LD
Tldr; I'm looking for logical, respectful, and fair debates where you show confidence in your arguments and sources. Fun debates are welcome as long as any sassiness, jokes, etc. are made in good fun maintain respect, and everyone is clear on this. Focus building YOUR argument most of all.
What are the most important criteria you consider when evaluating a debate?
I'm looking for solid arguments that are backed by sources and can be defended against your opponent's questions and counter-arguments. Confidence in your argument makes a huge difference as well; if you don't believe your own arguments, how do you expect me to?
I appreciate a slower, clear, emphasis on your main contentions so that I am clear on what I am judging and where points are dropped. It's extra helpful however, fo you to call out any dropped arguments as it (1) helps me catch any I missed and (2) shows me that you caught it and are critically analyzing your opponent's arguments.
What are your expectations for proper decorum from the debaters?
Courtesy above all else. This usually isn't a problem, but I have seen some eye rolls, face-making, and rude remarks made mid-debate. I don't mind a friendly banter amongst competitors (in fact, I LOVE a witty and fun debate) but please make that clear at the end with some good sportsmanship. Overall I don't want to see any lines crossed in terms of respect. Keep ad hominem at the door, we are a community and should treat each other as such.
I also love to see your personalities pop in a debate and love to see any personal ties to your arguments. You are a unique human being so play to your strengths as a speaker, I will adapt to you.
What strategies/positions/arguments are you predisposed to listen to and consider when you vote?
I want you to make a strong argument for YOUR point and not just focus on dismantling your opponent's points (especially neg). Even if you manage to poke holes in your opponent's arguments or plans, if they're the only ones who gave me a solid plan to go off of, they will still get my vote. Do not simply tell me to vote for you, let your arguments convince me of that.
How do you evaluate speed, jargon, and technical elements?
If your opponent is fine with these aspects so am, however, I am also aware of the many arguments against spreading so if this is brought up mid-round that is something I will take into consideration against anyone spreading who did not check in with their opponents (& me) beforehand. In short, your opponent needs to be able to follow along with your arguments in order for this debate to be fair.
Most importantly: Have fun! :)
Jia Lauber - Tourn Judges
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Jiayou Liu - ModernBrain
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Jomiloju Epoyun - LYL
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Joseline Molina - Velasquez Academy
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Josie Rivera - Velasquez Academy
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Juan Duquesne - Tourn Judges
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Kalani Luo - ModernBrain
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Kathleen Hollasch - HASCS
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Kien Toussaint - ModernBrain
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Laura Ortiz - HW
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Lauren Velasquez-Galvez - Velasquez Academy
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Mariclare Rivera - HASCS
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Maya Origel - Westridge
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Michelle Ramirez - HW
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Patrick Sammon - STAHS FTL
**Please add me to the email threads/email chains so I can follow along with the evidence presented: patrick.sammon@aquinas-sta.org
DEBATE:
**Remember that Public Forum Debate is the format of debate that most of the general public can follow and understand.**
I'm a citizen judge who will decide the round on clear, concise arguments from both sides based on the evidence presented. I follow the clock and Regs fully.
Avoid running Kritiks and T. The meat and potatoes of this format of debate is to reach the masses.
Decorum and Behavior: Everyone in the round needs to be respectful and act accordingly. Anything out of acceptable and energetic debate (attacks or backhanded comments on gender, race, etc.), I will throw the round to the other team, end the round, tank your speaks and notify your Coaches.
Spreading: I do not like spreading in PF (or LD). Having the ability to speak at 200 (OR MORE...MANY more) words per minute is a fantastic skill to have, but it doesn't belong in this arena. You are not the famous fast talker John Moschitta, Jr.. You have your Constructive speeches and adequate time to lay out your cases. People (opponents and judges, as well as any spectators in the gallery) need to understand everything you say and the evidence that you reference in order to follow.
During the rounds, please be sure to speak clearly. Be respectful to everyone in the round/on the 'call.' Even though this is a competitive event, we are still in the educational orbit. Use these tournaments as learning experiences and opportunities to further work at your craft.
Last but not least, please have fun and enjoy this experience! GOOD LUCK!
If my judging strategy doesn't match what your team is looking for, please feel free to STRIKE ME. I won't take it personally. Everyone has their tastes and are entitled to them - especially in tournaments where you have say in your judge panels. Take advantage of the benefit! :)
SPEECH:
Remember to relax, have fun and enjoy the experience!
Poema Oleas Mekhitarian - Flintridge Prep
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Robert Montgomery - QDLearning
Shaunte Caraballo - CSUDH
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Shivani Bansal - ModernBrain
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Stephanie Jo Marquez - CSUF
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Tiffany Dunia - Westridge
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Travis Cornett - Tourn Judges
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Tyler Lu - LYL
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Veronica Galvez - Velasquez Academy
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Xochitl Segovia - Velasquez Academy
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Zachary Zhi - LYL
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