About the Debate Team
The University of Texas at Dallas Debate Team is one of the nation's most up-and-coming young debate squads. The UT Dallas Debate Team was established in the Fall of 1996. It immediately garnered local successand created a name for itself as a competitive regional program. Since then, the UT Dallas budget and staff have grown consistently and the program has shifted its focus from regional competitiveness to national success.
Chris Burk is the Director of Debate at the University of Texas at Dallas. Scott Herndon is the Assistant Director and Coach. Both Chris and Scott were successful college debaters/coaches and together they represent more than 30 years of experience in competitive debate. UT Dallas' coaches are full time and are not required to carry teaching schedules, so they are available to the debaters for practice, argument analysis and other assistance.
Join the Team
The University of Texas at Dallas Debate Team is pleased to offer opportunities in two-person college policy debate. While most of our teams compete nationally, the UT Dallas Debate Team is open to anyone with two-person policy debate experience. Travel and level of competition are based on work effort, level of commitment and prior experience. The team is lucky to have incredible institutional support. The team's travel budget provides ample opportunity to experience and excel in college policy debate.
Travel
Travel will vary from team to team. Our top teams travel 5-7 weekends during each semester. Other teams may travel 2-3 weekends during each semester. Tournaments begin in late September and run until early April. A serious commitment to success in college debate requires a great deal of time, both in preparation and travel requirements. The coaches firmly believe a student's top priority should be his or her academic obligations. Debate work loads and travel schedules are adjusted to each student's academic requirements. UT Dallas debaters have traditionally excelled academically, found time to participate in campus activities and enjoy semester breaks with family and friends.
Need More Information?
If you have further questions or wish to join the UTD Debate Team, please contact Chris or Scott via email.
Updated: June 20, 2005
