Return to the National Tournament Portal...

For a coach who is a newcomer, registration on the Sunday of National Tournament week can be a little overwhelming. Here's a quick guide of what to keep in mind:

1. Find the line for School registration; your school's state will be categorized in either the first half or last half of the alphabet (Alabama-Montana, Nebraska-Wyoming). You’ll also receive your judging assignment and a name tag and ribbon for you as a coach. These serve as important identifying information for both security purposes, as well as adding to the decorum of the national tournament (and make nice mementos). There, you will be told if you need to rectify any issues.
   
   
2. You will then be told where to pick up Tournament Books, our extensive publication with everything you need to know. Please pay close attention to the black-tabbed portion — that contains all the schedules, venues and logistical information.
   
   
3. If you have Congress students, you’ll stop at the Congress table, to get your student’s Senate or House ribbon. If you have students in debate or speech events, you'll be able to pick up copies of schematics.
   
   
4. Be sure to visit the line for a free gift bag for you and your student. The local hosts often include coupons for food and attractions. Then, browse through the room at other tables.
   
   
5. Visit the Vending Expo where you’ll find all kinds of useful products, services and information on different workshops/institutes out there for forensic training for students and coaches. Even to browse, picking up catalogs/flyers is valuable to consider the different resources available in our community.
   
   
6. Make sure you’re able to make the First-Time coaches’ reception. It’s free, and a great opportunity to network and meet other people like you who are attending the National Tournament for the first time!
   
   
7. You’ll want to attend the Host Party Tuesday night. That’s where postings are after rounds 7 and 8 and prelims of Congress, and there’s food and fun for kids from across the country.
   
   
8. You’ll want to watch final rounds of the Interp events Thursday evening, and the other events throughout the day Friday. It’s a great opportunity to see the best of the best of competition — LIVE! You can also see final rounds of the Supplemental and Consolation events throughout the day Friday. The final session of Congress is throughout the day Thursday.
   
   
9. The awards assembly Friday night has some great benefits. Student names are randomly drawn for a number of “participant scholarships” -- but they have to be present to win!