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Utah Debate Coaches Association

Utah Debate Coaches Association

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Judges Code of Ethics

“The function of a judge is to assist in the education of students through participation in speech and debate, by giving constructive feedback and evaluation. Students should be treated with the utmost respect, and their welfare should be considered in decisions by
judges at all times.”

Judges shall be aware that they have a tremendous influence, for either good or ill, on the education of these students and, thus, shall never allow their personal bias, opinions, or knowledge to interfere with the honest evaluation of the competitors’ actual cases, presentation, positions.

Judges shall practice integrity by upholding the honor and dignity of our profession. In all personal contact with students, coaches, tournament officials, activities directors, school administrators, other coaches, the media, and the public, judges shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct.

Judges shall be expected to uphold school policies in regards to drug, alcohol, and tobacco use when in contact with students, or on school grounds.

Judges shall strive to understand the contest rules and to apply them to evaluating students.

Judges shall exert their influence to enhance sportsmanship and fair-play by competitors.

Judges shall respect and support tournament officials. Judges shall not indulge in conduct that would incite other judges, coaches or students against tournament officials. Public criticism of tournament officials, other coaches, or students is unethical.

Adapted from the NSDA Coach Ethics

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