The Grand County High School debate team is seeking volunteers to assist in the Red Cliffs Arches Invitational Tournament to be held Friday and Saturday, Dec. 13 and 14.
Ten teams from across the state are expected to compete at the two-day event to be held at the Grand County High School.
More than 200 students will be competing in debate and speech events. At least 30 judges are needed.
“You don’t need previous speech or debate experience,” said Kristin Millis, Grand County High School’s debate coach. “We will train you.”
Judges are needed from 3 to 8 p.m., Friday, December 13 and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 14.
First time judges will be asked to attend a one hour pre-tournament training the week before the competition. Training will be held 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 8 and at 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 12.
While judges are welcome to assist both days, it isn’t necessary, said Cassie Paup, one of the organizers of the event.
“You can judge for a four-hour shift, if you prefer,” she said.
Meals will be provided for judges.
Friday evening will feature debate events; while Saturday will focus on individual speaking events.
Friday night’s events will feature three styles of debate: congress, public forum and Lincoln-Douglas.
In congressional debate, individuals debate in a group setting, much like legislators do in our state and country’s capitols.
In public forum two-person teams argue on predetermined topics chosen monthly by the National Forensic League.
Lincoln-Douglas is based on the Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas debates held in the 1858, and to those done by presidential candidates in this century.
Saturday will feature individual events, such as oratory, impromptu, extemporaneous speaking, dramatic and humorous interpretation, poetry and prose.
“Judging these events will open your eyes to how bright and talented these students are,” Millis said.
The Grand County Debate Team is also seeking volunteers who are willing to assist with concessions, set-up and clean-up.
“If you want to be involved, but would prefer not to judge, we have additional work that can be done,” Millis said. “We appreciate all efforts to support these students.”
Annual speech and debate tournament to be held Dec. 13 and 14
What: Speech and debate judge training
When: 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 8 OR 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 12
Where: Grand County High School, 608 S. 400 East
To sign up as a judge contact Cassie Paup at cassiepaup@yahoo.com
What: Red Cliffs Arches Invitational Tournament
When: 3 to 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13 and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14
Where: Grand County High School, 608 S. 400 East
