UIL Speech Judges

Judging qualifications:
In college I judged LD, Extemp, Prose, and Poetry at high school invitational, district, and regional meets. I began coaching LD and Exempt in 1998. Over the years I have coached all junior and high school speaking contests, taken students to regional and state meets, been a UIL Coordinator for multiple districts, and participated as a judge at all levels: invitational, district, regional, and state meets. My judging philosophy is based on providing feedback that helps students improve in whatever event they are competing. For LD debate that means student focus on clear connected cases with strong relevant evidence that upholds their value, criterion, and effectively proves their position. Good use of cross examination and clear, effective evidence-supported rebuttals are important in any LD debate, and clear communication and knowledge of one's case is also vital. With extemp, organization, evidence, and a commanding use of space is important. As for prose and poetry, I want to be pulled into the story and appreciate contestants who can do that in a manner that creates a vivid and memorable performance.