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So you're new to the team?

Come join one of Central's largest and most successful organizations! Speech and Debate at Central HS is a place to build communication and public speaking skills, confidence, and friendships. We travel approximately twice a month to places all around Texas and compete with hundreds of other schools at tournaments. The friendships and skills gained in Speech and Debate are long lasting. Speech and Debate opens up many opportunities in the realm of college and job applications. 

Event Descriptions

Attached above is a power point with brief descriptions of event as well as other useful information you may need. If you have any questions feel free to ask either Schniers, Haynes, or an old kid

Packing List

ALL: hair products, suit, toothbrush, flow pads, laptops, chargers, undergarments, razors, extra shirts, black books, pillow

boys: ties, tall dark socks

Girls: pantyhose, makeup, heels and flats

FAQ

How do I know if I am an Interper or Debater?

Interp is telling a story through acting. You play all of the characters and choose a piece about something you are passionate about and can connect with. Debate is researching and putting together a case to argue over a topic.

How can I go to a tournament?

Because of the size of our team, each student must compete for a spot on the bus. This will include being prepared in all events the weeks before and working hard to improve.

What do I wear to a tournament?

All competitors must wear a suit to compete. Females must wear their hair in a bun and pantyhose. Males must be clean shaven and wear black socks. Not wearing a suit to a tournament is like wearing a tutu in a football game.

How does practice work?

Practice slots with old kids (kids that have been on the team for at least a year) are posted on the whiteboard in the back corner of the classroom. Every week old kids will write slots (30 minute one on one practice) for other students to take. On a typical Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, there are A and B time slots for lunch (A the first half, B the second) and after school there are A, B, and C slots until 5.

 

What's required to go to state?

  In order to go to TFA state you must accumulate 12 state points. You earn state points by placing at tournaments,the better you do the more points you earn.

 

What can i expect from a tournament?

  Tournaments can be very stressful the most important thing to know is where postings are and where our team spot is located. It's also very important to keep track of the schedule and the events you are participating in. also make sure to listen for any changes to the schedule, tournaments rarely run on time.  Be prepared to wake up early and return home late.

 

Where do we travel to?

We travel to panhandle region quite often (Lubbock, Amarillo, etc.) But, we also travel to other areas such as Abilene, the Metroplex, and even El Paso.

 

What are some Speech and Debate survival tips?

  • Don’t be afraid to ask officers and old kids for help, they were once in your spot too.

  • Make sure you get plenty of sleep the night before a tournament

  • Remember to bring water and healthy snacks to a tournament.

  • If you’re a female, bring extra bobby pins, pantyhose, hairspray

  • Don’t pack the morning of, give yourself plenty of time to gather all you’ll need

  • HAVE FUN!!!

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