The Tri-State Novice CEDA Association: An Experiment in Cooperation.

In the spring of 1987, several coaches at a forensic tournament expressed concern over a general lack of "safe debate" competition for novices. The coaches agreed that the solution was mutual support among themselves and a supportive environment which placed new debaters on an equal footing. That same spring, three colleges took part in a novice competition at Ferris State University (Michigan), at which most participants received trophies. The goal was to host a tournament in which novices could feel secure to practice the skills they learn and to learn new ones in a nurturing environment. Coaches became increasingly committed to inexpensive, supportive novice tournaments, and the Tri-State Debate Association (made up of coaches from Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio) began to take form. As the organization grew, it became the Novice Debate Association (NDA). By 1991 the group had 26 member institutions in 5 states. The organization's primary objective is to encourage novice level competition in Cross Examination Data Association (CEDA) debate by hosting events which allow nonthreatening, supportive, and balanced competition. The NDA asks judges to be competent and compassionate and to give constructive, supportive comments to participants. Debate has a place in the education of all students who live in a democracy. NDA supporters believe that the organization provides that opportunity. Relevant correspondence, an NDA membership list, a copy of the NDA Contitution and Bylaws, and minutes of a meeting are appended. (SG)