What is a Bid / Why do I need one (Congress)?

Even though a lot of factors are considered when deciding who goes to what tournament (i.e. dedication, performance, research, effort, seniority, etc),

one must have a BID (an AWARD) in order to attend the State ICDA (Illinois Congressional Debate Association) and the State IHSA (Illinois High School Association) tournaments.

There is a "lower house" @ ICDA that meets that same weekend/same place for those who haven't won awards.

So what does this mean?

This means that you need to win an award (Critics, 1st, 2nd, or P.O.) at a sanctioned NFL (National Forensic League) or ICDA regular season tournament to get to State.

Best Legislation does not count toward a BID.

You must know that earning a BID does not automatically mean that you are going to a specific tournament.

We are limited in how many debaters with Bids we may enter at State.

However, it does play an integral role because you cannot even be considered without one.

 

ICDA - Congress

4 in Senate (decided by max. bids)

10 in House (decided by speaker points)

 

IHSA – Congress

10 participants (decided first by max. bids, then by speaker points)

 

 

How does this apply to L/D Debate?

 

Because L/D is fiercely competitive, only four members are allowed to attend the IHSA State Tournament. 

We will invite the debaters with the top three records throughout the season. 

We are not looking at records as a mathematical ratio – we look for straight wins. 

This means that participation plays a role because someone who attends more debates has an opportunity to acquire more wins.

 

The final spot will be offered to the debater with the highest speaking points (regardless of record) that is not already attending.