The Cut Policy is at the bottom of this page.

 

How do I make the Team?

At the beginning of the year, come to try-outs (listen for info during announcements)!

An executive board consisting of the coaches and the captain will evaluate your ability.

We'll let you know if you make the team (we post outside of the English Office - Room 271).

 

If I make the Team, will I always get to compete?

 

Yes. 

Because Congressional Debate allows for a maximum of 25 students per chamber,

you will always have the opportunity to compete in any invitational Congress event

(for other events, see State Tournaments and Bids).

 

Lincoln-Douglas Debate is significantly more competitive in Illinois. 

This is for a few reasons: 

1)  it is one on one – you get more debate time

2)  it is truly indicative of a win – all students debate tournament-style down to select champions

3)  it costs more for the school – one judge for every two students

 

As a result, you may not always be able to compete at a Lincoln-Douglas event. 

However, students that show great dedication and responsibility will be given opportunities

(notice that I did not say talent – as a novice, we will develop your skills during practice!).

 

So can I put DEBATE on my college résumé?

 

Colleges frequently call to verify a student’s level of participation in an academic activity. 

If you do not truly participate (i.e. you seldom attend practices / events),

we cannot give you a solid recommendation

(which, by the way, can often be the deciding factor for some colleges – especially when ACT / SAT / GPA is equal).

 

What happens if I miss practice?

 

see Cut Policy (below)

 

What happens if I miss an event?

 

Please notify us in writing if you cannot attend - drobin@d211.org /

see Cut Policy (below)

 

What happens if I do not complete my research?

 

Research must be completed in order for our team to be successful.

Novices that are learning must still complete their research,

but we understand that it will be a learning experience.

 

see Cut Policy (below)

 

Do I have to ride the bus?

 

Yes! 

If you cannot ride the bus to the tournament and back to Schaumburg,

then you may not participate in that tournament.

We do this not only for liability issues, but to enhance the overall morale of the team.

 

see Cut Policy (below)

 

Cut Policy of the Schaumburg Debate Team