Judging

What is judging?

High school speech and debate utilizes a combination of parents and coaches to adjudicate rounds and provide feedback to students. A majority of judges at Washington tournaments are parents! 

In order to learn about judging, please watch the training videos below. All judges should watch the general training videos, as well as the sections for the events you are signed up to judge in.

How does a tournament work?

Once you arrive at the tournament by car or on the team bus, find your way to the judge's lounge, where food & drinks are served. This is often in the school's library. Just before the round, you will recieve a pairing (round assignment) via Tabroom.

As soon as you receive your pairing, hit "START ROUND" or "ACKNOWLEDGE BALLOT" as soon as possible (before walking to the room). This is how the advisor and tournament staff know you are available and on your way to judge the round. 

As soon as the round ends, submit your rank (for speech) or decision (for debate) as soon as possible. You can leave written feedback after you submit your rank/decision! This is important because rounds are power-matched, so all decisions are needed in order to pair the next round. 

When can I leave?

You are obligated for all rounds on the schedule which are listed.

You may judge elimination rounds or finals, where you will be on a panel with other judges. Submit your ballot without conversing with other judges. The last judge to submit should announce the result and all judges should provide a brief rationale for their decision. 

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