Policy Coaches

This page is your hub for Policy Debate resources. Here, you’ll find the tools, materials, and information you need to support your team’s success throughout the season. From training guides and curriculum materials to tournament updates and coaching tips, everything you need is just a click away.

Start Here

The One Stop Shop is your central hub for everything you need as a Chicago Debates coach. Find practice materials, tournament resources, Tabroom guides, and more—all in one place. If you have trouble accessing anything, contact Program Manager Chris Gentry.

Teach Policy Debate

Debate synopsis FAQ – Overview of Policy debate structure

How to flow – Introducing debate style note taking

Novice Survival Guide – To be shared with your students

NAUDL Resources – Additional material for novice debaters provided by the National Association for Urban Debate Leagues

What is a K? – For advanced teams

Run Your Practice

Core Files – Packet of evidence every school uses throughout the season

Curriculum – Eleven week guide for introducing the foundations of Policy debate

Activity Bank – Games and activities for your practices

Adopting a Growth Mindset – Talking to your debaters about winning and losing

Attend a Tournament

Tabroom Guide – Guide for setting up and registering your team in Tabroom

Tournament Calendar – 2024-25 full season calendar

High School League Rules – Chicago Debates’ official guidelines for competitions

Middle School League Rules – Chicago Debates’ official guidelines for competitions