Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a question that needs answering? Email us at tyler@nflonline.org!
Questions
I’m a new coach, whom can I contact about starting a team?
How can I find schools in my area that compete in speech and debate?
Can I join NFL mid-year?
Can my former students get credit in college for being in the NFL?
I used to compete in NFL years ago, how can I find my record?
My school is under financial burden. Are there any grants available through NFL?
My record shows I’m an affiliate. Other schools in my district are chapters. Why am I different?
I have read the guide…what if I still need guidance?
How does my school qualify to participate in the District Tournament?
Q: I’m a new coach, whom can I contact about starting a team?
A: A number of contacts are available and eager to talk to new NFL coaches. First, you can use the District Chair directory found on the website under Districts by clicking on District Contacts, who can answer your questions and set you up with an area mentor. Additionally, you can use our online resources under the tab “Coaches” for useful documentation on how to start your team successfully. Finally, feel free to call the National Office and speak to the Coordinator of Coach Education, Tyler Billman, for ways to begin your program.
Q: How can I find schools in my area that compete in speech and debate?
A: By joining the NFL, you will gain access to membership reports which list schools in your district that compete in speech and debate. These can be found online under the dropdown menu of “Membership Reports.” Also, you may refer back to Appendix B and call your District Chair for a list of nearby schools that compete in speech and debate. Finally, your state organization most likely has a website that will give you a schedule of upcoming tournaments and a list of schools that participate throughout your state, and your District Chair will be able to direct you to this website.
A: Yes! However, we do suggest that you join just as soon as possible so that you can maximize every opportunity to compete and participate.
Q: Can my former students get credit in college for being in the NFL?
A: Yes! Some institutions offer credit or simply award credit by examination to NFL alumni. Call the National Office for official proof of membership.
Q: I used to compete in NFL years ago, how can I find my record?
A: If you competed since 1996, your record can be found online. However, if your competition days occurred before 1996, call the NFL Office at 920-748-6206 or e-mail our Alumni Coordinator, Heidi Christensen. We will be happy to provide your record for you.
Q: My school is under financial burden. Are there any grants available through NFL?
A: Lincoln Financial Group is a proud sponsor of the NFL and offers grants to speech and/or debate programs with financial needs. The grant consists of free school membership and 5 free student memberships. Call our Director of Finance to see if your school qualifies for a grant.
Q: My record shows I’m an affiliate. Other schools in my district are chapters. Why am I different?
A: New schools in the NFL are granted affiliate status. Affiliate schools can still record points, attend the District Qualifier, and compete in the National Tournament. In order to attain Chapter status, affiliates must earn 1,000 NFL points in a two-year period. Remember, both coach and student points count toward the 1,000 point total! Acquiring Chapter status is a milestone for any schools forensic program and qualifies your school for additional opportunities in the League.
Q: I have read the guide…what if I still need guidance?
A: E-mail or call the NFL Coordinator of Coach Education, Tyler Billman or by phone at 920-748-6206.
Q: How does my school qualify to participate in the District Tournament?
A: You will receive information from your District Chair, however it is our suggestion that you contact your District Chair and notify them of your interest. If you are having problems, please contact Tyler Billman at the National Office at tyler@nflonline.org. All schools are encouraged to participate in the District Tournament!
