Judge Recruitment

The JRL role involves many moving parts, and consistent support helps them thrive in their responsibilities.This lesson focuses on how RJRCs can effectively train, support, and encourage JRLs throughout the recruiting season and tournament process. The goal of training is to ensure each JRL is confident in using the NCFCA tools and resources and has a clear understanding of their responsibilities before and during a tournament.

• Identifying Training Needs

• Determine Who to Train
  • Identify whether you will be training a Judge Recruitment Lead (JRL) or a Judge Recruitment Team made up of multiple individuals assisting with the recruiting process.
  • Adjust your training approach accordingly:
    • For a single JRL, focus on equipping them to oversee the full scope of judge recruitment.
    • For a team, clarify individual roles and ensure everyone understands how their responsibilities fit together.
• Determine When to Train
  • Plan training sessions early in the tournament season to allow time for preparation and momentum. 
  • The recommended training window is in the 8-9 weeks before the tournament starts to leave time for planning and kick-off preparation.
  • Consider the rhythm of your region’s tournament calendar to time training sessions most effectively.
  • Plan for follow-up sessions or check-ins as needed to reinforce understanding and address questions that arise during recruiting.

• Training the JRL for the Role

• Decide how to incorporate the Learning Management System (LMS) into your training sessions:
  • Review the LMS together during a meeting, allowing time for discussion and clarifying questions.
  • Alternatively, have the JRL complete the following LMS lessons in advance, then conduct a Q&A follow-up session:
    • Introduction Lesson
    • 4 JRL Lessons
    • 2 “Next Steps” Lesson
• Reviewing Essential Components:
  • Discuss the three key responsibilities of the JRL:
    • Walk through how each responsibility unfolds both before and during the tournament to help the JRL plan and prioritize effectively.
    • Monitor Communications
    • Coordinate Recruitment Efforts
    • Organize Debate Finals

• Confirm Access & Understanding

• • • Email Account
      • Confirm the JRL has received and can access their official NCFCA.org email account and can login.
    • NCFCA Staff Dashboard
      • Verify the JRL can log in successfully as well as view and use all necessary elements.
    • JRL Tournament-Specific Master Folder
      • Confirm the JRL has access and understands how to navigate the folder and use available resources.

• Communicating with JRLs

• Be proactive in communication and support.
• Remain available to answer JRL questions promptly as they arise.
• If you need additional assistance:
  • Contact the NJRC via email, text, or call.
  • When at a tournament, use the established Google Chat for immediate help.

• Offering Encouragement and Prayer

• Pray regularly for JRLs and express encouragement through ongoing communication.
• Maintain consistent contact to foster teamwork, confidence, and a sense of partnership.
• Offer assistance and guidance while allowing JRLs flexibility to fulfill their responsibilities in ways that suit their individual strengths.