Debate Audition Information

Post date: Aug 18, 2017 6:44:53 PM

The MHS Debate Team will hold auditions for the 2017-18 season on Monday, September 11 beginning after school in room 396. Students interested in trying out for the team should read the following information thoroughly. Any questions can be directed to the head coach, Andrew Tichy, at atichy@moorheadschools.org.

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Due to the large number of students expressing interest at our May meeting, the MHS Debate team will hold auditions on Monday, September 11th beginning at 3:40 p.m. in room 396 (Mr. Tichy's room on the third floor of the 9th grade wing). Students should come prepared with all necessary materials and should expect an audition/interview lasting about five minutes. Please note that, while the coaching staff will make every effort to stay on our very ambitious schedule, some delays are to be expected. Our goal is to hear all students who wish to join our team!

One brief note: Students also auditioning for the Fall Musical should be aware that our schedule is set up to accommodate you. Sophomores and Seniors will audition for Debate between 3:40-6pm and Freshmen and Juniors will audition between 6-7:30pm. This only applies to those auditioning for both Debate and the Fall Musical.

First, all auditioning students must attend an informational meeting on Wednesday, September 6th at 3:30 in room 396. There, the audition resolution will be announced. This is to ensure a level playing in field in which all students have the same amount of preparation time before their audition. Audition sign ups will be available during the meeting and open until Friday, September 8th at 3:30 pm.

In addition, we will cover how to prepare for your audition and what to expect during the interview. We will also briefly discuss team expectations should you make the team. This will include the cost of travel, tournament attire requirements, and a review of the 2017-18 schedule. Students unable to attend this important meeting should email Mr. Tichy immediately.

During the audition, you will be asked to bring a typed summary of your research, including source materials that both affirm and negate the resolution. You will then be asked to present a 1.5-2 minute prepared opening statement (constructive speech) with the side of your choosing (these are four minutes long during a normal competition). The remaining time will be spent conducting an informal interview in which you will also be encouraged to ask any questions you may have.

In the meantime, students eager to get a jump start on the audition (and the season) can begin gathering research on the September/October resolution. Students are also encouraged to review PF information on the NSDA website (www.speechanddebate.org) and the MSHSL website (www.mshsl.org) to become more familiar with this unique debate category. Sample PF debates can also be found online with a quick YouTube search.

On behalf of the coaching staff, I sincerely hope you consider joining us for what promises to be an exciting, competitive, and above all, educational season!

Thank you,

Mr. Tichy