Betty Whitlock coaches forensics at Clinton High School, MS. Betty is a two diamond coach who has served the Mississippi District Committee for several terms as District Chair and currently as a committee member. In addition, Betty has served as Congressional Chamber Director for past National tournaments.

What was your first NFL experience?

I attended a tournament at Selma High School that was hosted by Billy Tate in the 70's

When did you decide to be a teacher and/or coach?

Well, I've wanted to be a teacher since the first grade, it was just always something that I wanted to do. But, my junior year in high school I won a fabulous 17 day trip to the UN and Washington, D.C., and I knew that I wanted to share that experience with young people. It opened the world for me and I wanted to bring a similar experience to students.

What is your team philosophy?

To develop skills that prepare students for life--win or lose, the important thing is that they improve. If their opponents are better, then it makes them better. This same philosophy makes me a supporter of workshops to improve competition throughout the state.

How many hours do you spend with this activity a week?

Thirty hours per week at the beginning of the season, and this lessens to twenty hours per week as the year goes on.

What is your vision for the future of the NFL?

I feel as if it's always changing to meet the needs of the day; for example, the addition of L/D and Public Forum Debate. I want the NFL always to continue bringing youth skills that they need for life.

What is exciting about being an NFL coach in the state of Mississippi?

Speech and Debate is a good ambassador for the state of Mississippi; the activity proves what Mississippians already know--we have an excellent educational program.

What's unique about Clinton High School as an NFL chapter?

We're a small group, but our students build wonderful skills and are very successful both in competition and in their careers.

What qualities do you look for when recruiting students for your program?

They come to me. As long as they're interested, they'll leave as a better person. Trophies aren't important; improvement is.

How has the NFL changed since your days as a competitor?

My high school where I attended didn't have an NFL program. I did compete in Pi Kappa Delta tournaments in college. We had only Policy Debate and Discussion. In my early years as a coach, extemp was for Boys and Girls; I like the change to Domestic and International. I also watched as NFL added L/D and Public Forum Debate. Even with these changes, the NFL has been careful to keep true to its purpose...like a port in a storm, it has consistently encouraged and recognized students well.

What is your favorite memory from a National Tournament?

Standing behind my students as they looked at the Grand Canyon.

What is the greatest challenge as a coach today?

Financing our program. Money is tight in Mississippi right now, as it is everywhere.

Are there any rituals/luck traditions that you employ as a coach?

We have an elaborate induction and speech awards ceremony every year. The students light red, white, and blue candles; and we discuss the levels of degrees and the meaning of the pin. Then the students perform.

What's your favorite weekend tournament food item?

Something that doesn't break a diet.

Each month a different coach will be profiled in the Rostrum. If you are interested in nominating a coach, please submit a photo and 300 words describing your coach's efforts to nflrostrum@centurytel.net