• Setup:

  This status is used while the tournament is still being setup.

• Open:

  This status means tournament registration is open. Families can register for the tournament.

• Drops Only:

  This status means only registration drops are allowed. There are no new entries allowed but families can drop entries.

• Closed:

  This status means registration is currently closed for the tournament. There are no adds or drops allowed. Please contact the tournament director with any questions.

• Completed:

  This status means the tournament is completed.

Every day David sent a Scripture verse in a group text to 74 friends, most of whom were fellow speech and debaters for whom he also prayed. He served many hours with his church's outreach to those in need. He was a true Ambassador for Christ! We cherish the memory for his Christ-honoring life, a fun-loving, spontaneous-dancing, speech & debate champion, fisherman of people & fishes. We look forward, in God's timing, to our reunion with him in the Presence of Jesus, our Savior King, whom, we are absolutely certain, he is even more now loving, worshipping, and serving!

David Helton's Words of Encouragement to You His Friends (& Fellow Speech & Debaters)

David's Heart

1) David wants you to join him in following Jesus.

Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life. - John 5:24

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. - John 11:25-26, (Acts 2:36-37; Acts 8:28-37, Acts 9:1-19)

2) David loves you every day, no matter what.

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. – 1 John 4:7-8

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. - 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another. - John 13:35

David's Walk

1) David wants you to be lifted up and encouraged by reading the Psalms and other scriptures each day.

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. - Romans 15:4

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17

How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. - Psalms 119:9

2) David wants you to pray for other people, your friends and family.

Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. - James 5:16

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

3) David wants to encourage you to stay connected to your friends by emailing or texting them Bible verses to encourage them.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.- Philippians 4:8

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.- 1 Thessalonians 5:11

4) David wants you to be more like Jesus every day.

Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did. - 1 John 2:6

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship. - Romans 12:1

Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children, and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. - Ephesians 5:1-2

David's Destination

1) David is safe and secure in the hands of his Savior and friend, Jesus Christ.

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord's word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so, we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words. - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

2) David wants to see you again. He wants to give you a hug. He wants to dance before you and his Father.

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. - Philippians 3:20

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. - John 14: 1-3

A gift to you from David's family - Don, Maribeth, Jonathan, & Anne Marie Helton

David’s Cousin - Josh Hazelbaker & David's friend - Savannah Prozik

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH: Directions to the Church, Parking & Check-In Entrance:

Grace Baptist Church is located northwest of downtown Nashville at 1510 Old Hickory Boulevard, Nashville,  TN 37207.  The church is 0.8 miles east of I-24 at Exit 40.  From Nashville, drive toward Clarksville on I-24 to Exit 40.   CAUTION:  Within Davidson County, there are four different locations with the address of 1510 Old Hickory Boulevard.   I explain why below.     The church campus is at the northeast corner of the intersection of Old Hickory Boulevard and Brick Church Pike.  There is a red light at this intersection.  There are three entrances from the road to the church parking lot with two of those being from Old Hickory Boulevard.  Ideally, you would turn left on Brick Church Pike and enter the ample parking lot by immediately turning right.      

There is only one entrance into the church building, which is on the back left side of the building beneath a covered entryway.  Look for directional signs to this entrance.   A brief lesson on Nashville streets.  Nashville was initially laid out like a wagon wheel with the hub being downtown and streets radiating out from downtown to Old Hickory Boulevard, which completely encircles the city.  Today, each of the interstates crossing through Nashville I-24, I-40, & I-65, has  two Old Hickory Boulevard exits, one coming into town and one going out of town.     Hopefully, a little bit of introduction to Nashville streets can make the complex less confusing.    

CHECK-IN DIRECTIONS FOR EVERYONE AT THE DAVID HELTON FALL FORENSICS FORUM TOURNAMENT

ALL STUDENTS, PARENTS, & COMMUNITY JUDGES: CHECK-IN FOR ALL EVENTS - Enter the Church at the Double Door Rear Entry. See Map & Directions Above. Watch for Directional Signs. Go into Welcome Center, the large room on your left.  Student name badges and tent cards will be distributed at Check-In. Parent & Community Judge Name Badges will also be distributed there.

STUDENT HANG-OUT ROOM: is in the Church Gym on the opposite side of the Church from the entrance and Check-In in the Welcome Center. Follow the directional signs to the Gym.

PARLI DEBATE CHECK-IN TIME: Thursday, November 20th at 7:15-7:40 AM with Devotion & Announcement in Sanctuary at 7:40 AM. It will be best if Parli students arriving for Check-In go from Check-In in the Welcome Center directly to the Sanctuary as it is on the same side of the Church at the Welcome Center. 

TP/LD DEBATE & SPEECH ONLY CHECK IN TIME: Thursday, November 20th at 1:30-2:15 PM in Student  – See directions above

ALL ADULT CHECK-IN: All Parents & Judges check in just inside rear church entry & to your left in the Welcome Center where you will also receive your name badges. 

COMMUNITY JUDGES: We ask you to arrive one hour before the start of the first event you choose to judge as we provide training for the event(s) you will judge. We also provide a buffet for every meal and snacks!

VISITORS: To keep everyone safe, all adults need to check in at the  Judge Greet table just inside the rear entry.  See directions above.  

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH: Directions to the Church, Parking & Check-In Entrance:

Grace Baptist Church is located northwest of downtown Nashville at 1510 Old Hickory Boulevard, Nashville,  TN 37207.  The church is 0.8 miles east of I-24 at Exit 40. 

From Nashville, drive toward Clarksville on I-24 to Exit 40.     

CAUTION:  Within Davidson County, there are four different locations with the address of 1510 Old Hickory Boulevard.

WHY? Nashville was initially laid out like a wagon wheel with the hub being downtown and streets radiating out from downtown to Old Hickory Boulevard, which completely encircles the city.  Today, each of the interstates crossing through Nashville I-24, I-40, & I-65, has  two Old Hickory Boulevard exits, one coming into town and one going out of town. Hopefully, a little bit of introduction to Nashville streets can make the complex less confusing.    

The church campus is at the northeast corner of the intersection of Old Hickory Boulevard and Brick Church Pike.  There is a red light at this intersection.  There are three entrances from the road to the church parking lot with two of those being from Old Hickory Boulevard.  Ideally, you would turn left on Brick Church Pike and enter the ample parking lot by immediately turning right.    

Here is a Google Earth photo of Grace Baptist Church.   

There is only one entrance into the church building, which is on the back left side of the building beneath a covered entryway.  Look for directional signs to this entrance.  

ALL STUDENTS, PARENTS, & COMMUNITY JUDGES: CHECK-IN FOR ALL EVENTS - Enter the Church at the Double Door Rear Entry. See Map & Directions Above. Watch for Directional Signs. Go into Welcome Center, the large room on your left.  Student name badges and tent cards will be distributed at Check-In. Parent & Community Judge Name Badges will also be distributed there.

Apologetics rounds will be taken from the following categories (though not necessarily in this order):

• Category 2 - Foundations of Christianity
• Category 3- Scripture
• Category 5 - Christian Worldview Application 
• Catefory 6- Christianity Compared

Mars Hill rounds will be taken from the following categories (though not necessarily in this order):

• Current Music
• Literature
• The Arts
• Classic Media

Safety

Parents or supervising adults, must plan to remain on site while your student is present throughout the tournament. Your student's safety and positive experience is of utmost importance. 

Importance of Parent Judges

Thank you for understanding that a sizable pool of parent judges is critical for providing a quality tournament for all competitors. With that in mind, your minimum requirement is to judge the rounds for which you signed up. You also need to check in with Ballot Push at the beginning of each round in case there are some unexpected judging needs.

Check-in

All Parents/Judges will check in just inside the rear church entry where you will also receive your name badges. Follow signs to this rear entry.

Visitors

To keep everyone safe, all adults at the tournament need to check in and wear a name badge.  Please stop by the Judge Greet table at the rear entrance to get a name badge. Thank you!

MANDATORY SV SCRIPT SUBMISSION: ONLY required for SV, NOT for JR/JV!  

SEND IN YOUR SCRIPTS TO: AMBASSADORSCRIPTS@GMAIL.COM  

1) Prepare your script: Find lots of helpful tips on the Stoa Script Submission Tips at Stoa's Membership Benefits Link. 

Please have the script(s) for each event with the REQUIRED pages in the following order:
• SIGNED script submission form(s) for your event(s) - found at the links above.
• Typed copy of the speech script.
• Works cited page (for platforms only).

• Highlighted photocopy of the original source text, including added words (for Interps only).

2) Merge all files into one pdf document.  Check the internet for free websites that will help you merge pdf files.

3). Save your submission file: Scripts must be completed according to the STOA rules & are to be PDF files. 

Here is the format for your script submission file(s):
Last name, First name, Event name
For example: Smith, James, Humorous Interp

4) Submit your submission file:

Send your Script Submission file to this email address: ambassadorscripts@gmail.com

Early Script Submission Deadline: Wednesday, October 29th, 2025, 6:00 PM CST.

Deadline for All Script Submissions: Friday, November 7th, 6:00 PM CST.

Deadline for All Submission Corrections: Wednesday, November 12th, 6:00 PM CST. If your script requires corrections, it must be corrected and approved by this date to avoid being dropped from your registration resulting in a charged drop fee for that event.

***Early Script Submission Prize Drawing: We will be offering three cash drawings for every script submitted before Wednesday, October 29th at 6:00 pm CST. Each early script is 1 entry into the drawing. Cash drawings will be made at random.

***If you have prior approval of a script from a STOA-sanctioned tournament and have not changed the Script AT ALL, submit that approval email to our Script Submission email above no later than 6:00 pm CST, Friday, November 7th, 2025.

You will receive a confirmation email once your script has been received with either an approval (YAY!) or requests for corrections. If your script is returned for corrections, complete any requirements and resend within 24 hours. Scripts must be fully approved (with no corrections needed) no later than WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12th at 6:00 PM CST. Otherwise, it is time to celebrate your approval!  

***Bring and keep with you at the tournament hard copies of all your scripts in case they need to be referenced for any reason.

All notifications concerning script submissions will be sent via email. There will be no status listed on this website on any other tab or page; please disregard any notices on the Script Submission tab that refer to status, as this function is not currently active. Check your email for all correspondence concerning your script submissions.

Student Code of Conduct

​I. Preamble

The mission of Stoa speech and debate is to train homeschool students to speak boldly and change the world for Christ. To accomplish this, we train students to uphold a biblical worldview through their conduct as well as their speech.

As a Christ-centered organization dedicated to a biblical worldview, Stoa requires each student to affirm and abide by this Code of Conduct. A student’s commitment to and ongoing compliance with this Code of Conduct, as amended from time to time, is an essential condition of his or her membership and participation in Stoa.

​II. Student Character, Speech, and Conduct

At all times, in both public and private, a student must exhibit Christ-like character, following His example in word and deed. While we do not expect a student to be perfect, we do expect that he or she will strive always to be like Christ in a spirit of truth and humility. As the Apostle Paul said, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Phil. 3:12). Accordingly, each student must:

• ​Advance Stoa’s mission and not act or speak in a way that undermines it.

• Understand and respect, and not act or speak inconsistently with, the Stoa Statement of Faith, which is available at https://stoausa.org/events/membership-registration/.

• Understand and respect, and not act or speak inconsistently with, Stoa’s position on marriage and gender, which consists of the “Nashville Statement” available at https://cbmw.org/nashville-statement.

• Submit to the civil authorities of our country and obey its laws, consistent with the commands of a biblically-informed conscience.

• Respect others in speech and actions. This means treating everyone with respect and submitting to those in authority over a student. A student’s speech—whether in person, in written communication, or on social media—must be decent, respectful, and Christ-honoring. Speech must never be profane, indecent, deceitful, abusive, or disrespectful of the Lord’s name.

• Commit to academic integrity and ethical behavior in all areas of competitive forensics.

III. Conduct at Stoa Tournaments or Other Events

Stoa tournaments and events are an opportunity for students to compete, connect, forge friendships, and deepen their faith. In order to build an edifying community and foster a Christ-centered environment at Stoa tournaments and events, each student must:

• ​​Refrain from any use or possession of alcohol, tobacco, vaping and e-cigarettes, marijuana, pornography, and illegal drugs.

• Refrain from any behavior that, in the opinion of Stoa, endangers the health, safety, or well-being of oneself or others.

• Compete with integrity by being truthful, honorable, and complying with the rules of the competition.

• Adhere to the dress code.

IV. Administration and Enforcement

Any student found by Stoa to be in violation of this Code of Conduct will be subject to discipline. Such discipline may include, but is not limited to: (i) formal or informal correction, (ii) conditions upon participation in Stoa tournaments and other events, (iii) conditions upon Stoa membership, (iv) probation or suspension from participation or membership, and/or (v) expulsion from participation or membership.

The interpretation, application, and enforcement of this Code of Conduct is solely within the discretion of Stoa, and no person shall be considered a third-party beneficiary or acquire any rights under this document. Stoa is committed to administering the Code of Conduct fairly and in a manner consistent with its identity and convictions as a Christian organization.

This Code of Conduct may be amended from time to time at the discretion of Stoa and its leadership. Stoa will endeavor to provide timely notice to students and parents of any material revisions.

Stoa & Ambassador Club's Tabulation Core Values and Principles

Stoa's Core Values and Prnciples are the principles and standards which guide tabulation at the David Helton Fall Forensics Forum Tournament.

Below are Stoa's Tabulation Core Values and Principles which Ambassador Club has adopted for all our tournaments

Stoa is the national, Christian, home school league with which Ambassadors for Christ Club is affiliated and a member.

Stoa Tabulation has spent thousands of hours producing tab processes and procedures to best benefit Stoa students and families participating in speech and debate.

Stoa's Tabulation Core Values and Principles which it applies to all tabulation processes.

1. The first is Stoa’s belief in a Transparent Tabulation policy based on biblical principles.
2. The second is a set of four Core Principles upon which Stoa tabulation (and any tabulation process) must be built. All choices made for tabulation procedures must abide by these four principles.

I. Stoa Transparent Tournament Tabulation Core Values

Stoa leadership believes that policies ought rightly to flow from biblical principles. Admittedly, there is no reference in Scripture to the tabulation of Speech and Debate tournaments. However, there are Biblical principles that can guide Stoa tabulation behavior.

Scripture generally speaks with condemnation of that which is done in secret. God knows the natural tendency of our sin nature to hide the secret errors of our ways. To combat this natural tendency, Scripture promotes the concept of presenting ourselves before witnesses through confession, openness, and accountability as a means of ensuring honesty and integrity.

The following Scriptures illustrate the Biblical norm. This is not a comprehensive list of verses on the subject, but it is a good representation.

John 18:20 (New International Version, ©2011)

“I have spoken openly to the world,” Jesus replied. “I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I said nothing in secret.”

Proverbs 10:9 (New International Version, ©2011)

“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”

Proverbs 11:3 (New International Version, ©2011)

“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”

Proverbs 28:13 (New International Version, ©2011)

“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.”

Job 13:9-10 (New International Version, ©2011)

“Would it turn out well if he examined you? Could you deceive him as you might deceive a mortal? He would surely call you to account if you secretly showed partiality.”

Mark 4:21-23 (New International Version, ©2011)

“‘He said to them, “Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear.’”

2 Corinthians 1:12 (New International Version, ©2011)

“Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God’s grace.”

2 Corinthians 4:1-2 (New International Version, ©2011)

“Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.”

In accordance with Scripture and promoting openness and accountability, Stoa has adopted a Transparent Tabulation Policy. Stoa leadership is accountable to the members of Stoa and Stoa members have a vote on the important decisions of Stoa. To maintain this consistent model, Stoa Tabulation Processes are accountable to the members of Stoa. Without such an approach, there can be no true accountability.

II. Stoa Tabulation Core Principles

Merit

• Students should be rewarded for their performance at the tournament. The “better” students should earn the highest rankings, and the “lesser” students should earn lower rankings.

• The procedures chosen should allow for the separation of the students into appropriate placings during the tournament.

• The procedures chosen should allow the better students to “rise to the top” and the lesser students “to settle to the bottom.”

• The meritocracy process has the benefit of allowing students to more frequently compete against other students of similar ability.

Fair

• It must be understood that no process can be 100% fair to 100% of the student competitors 100% of the time.

• The procedures chosen should be made to be as fair as possible to the most students possible most of the time.

Equitable

• The procedures chosen should impact students as proportionally as possible.

Consistent

• The procedures chosen should reflect the overall goal of producing the best result and should be internally consistent with other procedures within the tabulation process.

There are different methods of tabulating speech and debate tournaments. The methods chosen should be based upon and consistent with the core values of Stoa Tab.

III. A Biblical Approach to Tournament Tabulation

Stoa Tabulation (“Tab”) Rooms will operate with the utmost integrity to serve member families and bring glory to God through that service. Biblical accountability should be a hallmark of all Stoa tournaments and the tabulation of those events. All Tabulation Rooms and Tab staff should seek to be above reproach in all their activities.

Copied from Stoa's Website: Tabulation policies & processes adopted by Ambassadors for Christ Club's DHFFF Tournament Staff

If you must drop an event, please do so before the close of tournament registration on October 29th. There will be NO REFUNDS for dropped events. Once the tournament registration closes on the October 29th, a $10 fee will be assessed for each dropped event. Drops create a domino effect of extra work for staff because they affect awards orders, room allocation, judging needs, meal plans & preparation, & the awards ceremony.

JR/JV Poetry Interpretation 

Description: In Poetic Interpretation, the student presents a poem of their choice. The selection and presentation of the poem should captivate and move the audience.

Goal: To select and analyze poetry, then bring it to life through the creative use of voice, movement, and facial expression.

JR/JV Poetry Interpretation Preparation Rules:
1. Poems may come from a single work or a variety of genres. The result must be a single work, and it may not be authored by the competitor.
2. Media transcripts are not permitted. A “media transcript” is a pirated script or selection that has been transcribed by an individual from a live or recorded performance (theater, movies, television/radio broadcasts, webcasts, internet streaming, etc.).
3. The poem must be cut to fit within the time limit.
4. 150 words may be added for any purpose, including but not limited to introductions and transitions.
5. Dialogue from one character may be given to another character.
6. The selection may be entered in only one category per tournament.
7. The student may place the selection in a different category in subsequent tournaments.
8. The student may enter only one interpretive selection per category.

JR/JV Poetry Interpretation Presentation Rules:
1. The speaker must identify the title and author near the beginning of the piece.
2. The speaker must compete in tournament attire.
3. No audio or visual aids or props may be used.
4. Only feet are permitted to touch the floor at any time.
5. Gratuitous vulgarity is strictly prohibited.
6. This is primarily a speech event but some singing and dancing are permitted as appropriate to the piece.
7. The script must be memorized. No written scripts or notes may be referred to in competition rounds. The competitor can receive a ranking penalty for use of a written script or notes in competition.
8. The timekeeper will start the timepiece when the speaker begins and will stop the timepiece when the speaker finishes. No hand signals will be given.

Speaking time limit– five (5) minutes. No minimum time.

JR/JV Poetry Intrep Ballot

JR/JV Open Interpretation (includes Dramatic & Humorous Interp) Rules & Ballot

Description: In Open Interpretation, the student creates an original rendition from a single selection of literature, which can be either dramatic or humorous. The student's original rendition should captivate, move, and/or entertain the audience.

Goal: To select and analyze literature, then bring it to life through the creative use of voice, movement, and facial expression.

JR/JV Open Interpretation Preparation Rules:
1. Interpretive literature may come from a variety of published genres including plays or prose. The selection must be from a single work and it may not be authored by the competitor.
2. Media transcripts are not permitted. A “media transcript” is a pirated script or selection that has been transcribed by an individual from a live or recorded performance (theater, movies, television/radio broadcasts, webcasts, internet streaming, etc.).
3. The literature must be cut to fit within the time limit.
4. Approximately 150 words may be added for any purpose including but not limited to introductions and transitions.
5. Changes to pronouns and verb tenses are allowed and not counted as added words.
6. Dialogue from one character may be given to another character.
7. The selection may be entered in only one category per tournament.
8. The student may place the selection in a different category in subsequent tournaments
9. The student may enter only one interpretive selection per category.

JR/JV Open Interpretation Presentation Rules:
1. The speaker must identify the title and author near the beginning of the piece.
2. The speaker must compete in tournament attire.
3. No audio or visual aids or props may be used.
4. Only feet are permitted to touch the floor at any time.
5. Gratuitous vulgarity, while completely unlikely, is strictly prohibited.
6. This is primarily a speech event but some singing and dancing are permitted as appropriate to the piece.
7. The script must be memorized. No written scripts or notes may be referred to in competition rounds. However, if they are the competitor can be given a lower ranking within the round.
8. The timekeeper will start the timepiece when the speaker begins and will stop the timepiece when the speaker finishes. No hand signals will be given.

Speaking time limit–five (5) minutes. No minimum time.

JRJV Open Interp Ballot

JR/JV Story Reading

Description: In Story Reading, the student chooses a children's storybook and reads aloud a selection of their choice from the book. The selection and presentation of the story should captivate the audience. The student is encouraged to use voice inflection, tone, volume, expressiveness, character differentiation and facial expression to animate the characters and bring the story to life.

Goal: To select a story or portion of a storybook and, in reading it aloud, bring the book and characters to life through the creative use of voice, inflection, and facial expression.

JR/JV Story Reading Presentation Rules:
1. The student has up to 5 minutes to READ from an actual children’s storybook.
2. The student must read verbatim from the storybook, without added interpretive wording.
3. The student must bring and use an actual book in this event.

Speaking Time Limit– five (5) minutes. No minimum time.

JR/JV Story Reading Ballot

JR/JV Limited Preparation Apologetics Speech

Description: A JV Apologetics speech is a limited preparation speech, in which the speaker is given two minutes to prepare a speech that defends a tenet of the Christian faith.

Goal: To motivate students to study and articulate the core issues of their faith in a knowledgeable, sincere, winsome manner. The focus may or may not be evangelistic. The audience’s acceptance of the Bible's truth should not be assumed. Content outweighs delivery: greater weight should be given to the content of the speech, rather than the presentation style.

The 2025-26 JV Apologetics Questions:

1. Who is Jesus? 
2. How does the Holy Spirit help us? 
3. How do we see God in creation? 
4. What is the fall? 
5. Why did Jesus have to die? 
6. Can a person do enough good things to get into heaven? 
7. What is grace? 
8. What is repentance? 
9. What is sin? 
10. What is the Bible? 
11. Why must Jesus be truly human and truly God? 
12. How many persons are there in God?

JV Apologetics Preparation Rules:

1. Students prepare for Apologetics through Bible study, research, and topic organization. 
2. Each competitor should create a card file with Scripture, definitions, quotations, and any other material deemed to be helpful. Cards must be no larger than 4 x 6. 
3. Students may work together on boxes before the tournament, but students may not share boxes during rounds of competition.
   

JV Apologetics Presentation Rules:

1. At least one judge in each room will be given instructions and the envelope of topics to distribute to the student. 
2. In the room, the speaker will receive three single topics from the judge, choose one, and return the other two topics before leaving the room. 
3. A two-minute preparation time begins as soon as the student receives the topic choices. 
4. The speech must be the original work of the speaker. 
5. During prep time, the speaker may use a Bible, access card files, and write
   additional notes on note cards. 
6. During the speech, the speaker should use only note cards. No props, audio or visual
   aids may be used. 
7. All direct quotations and primary sources must be cited verbally within the body
   of the speech. Use of another person’s words or ideas without crediting them is
   plagiarism and is strictly forbidden. 
8. Though we never expect this, we still post this rule. Gratuitous vulgarity is strictly
   prohibited. 
9. All questions/topics will be posted on the tournament site and will be visible upon
   registration. 
10. Apologetics judges should be sympathetic to the ideals of Stoa. 
11. The timekeeper will start the timepiece when the speaker begins and will stop the
    timepiece when the speaker has concluded his speech.

Speaking Time Limit– five (5) minutes No minimum limit.

JR/JV Limited Prep Apologetics Ballot

JR/JV Duo Interpretation

Description: In Duo Interpretation, two students create an original rendition from various pieces of literature (including original unpublished work) which captivates and moves the audience.

Goal: To select and analyze literature, then bring it to life through the creative use of voice, facial expression, and movement without interacting face-to-face.

JR/JV Duo Interpretation Preparation Rules:
1. Interpretive literature should come from traditional published or copyrighted literature.
2. Media transcripts are not permitted. A “media transcript” is a pirated script or selection that has been transcribed by an individual from a live or recorded performance (theater, movies, television/radio broadcasts, webcasts, internet streaming, etc.).
3. There is not a limit to the number of words added by competitors nor any restriction on how those words are used.
4. Dialogue from one character may be given to another character.
5. The interpretive piece may be entered in only one category per tournament (e.g. either ‘Dramatic' or ‘Duo’ but not both). The students may place the interpretive piece in a different category in subsequent tournaments.
6. The students may enter only one interpretive piece per event, i.e. only one entry in Duo Interp.

JR/JV Duo Interpretation Presentation Rules:
1. The author and title of the work must be introduced.
2. The resulting construction of the interpretive piece should provide a balanced performance between the two students.
3. The students should not look at each other, touch each other, or interact face-to face.
4. The speakers must compete in tournament attire.
5. No audio or visual aids or props may be used.
6. Only feet are permitted to touch the floor at any time.
7. Gratuitous vulgarity, while highly unlikely, is strictly prohibited.
8. This is primarily a speech event but some singing and dancing are permitted as appropriate to the piece.
9. The script must be memorized. No written scripts or notes may be referred to in competition. The competitors can receive a lower ranking for use of a written script or notes in competition.
10. The timekeeper will start the timepiece when the speakers begin and will stop the stopwatch when the speakers finish. No hand signals will be given.

Speaking time limit – seven (7) minutes. No minimum time.

JR/JV Duo Interp Ballot

JR/JV Varsity Expository Speech

Description: An Expository speech is a prepared speech, written by the speaker, which explains or “exposes” a topic, usually with the help of visual aids.

Goal: To develop a winsome, polished speaker who can present a creative, well-organized speech while efficiently employing audio/visual aids or props.

JR/JV Varsity Expository Preparation Rules:
1. The speaker may prepare a speech on any topic.
2. The primary purpose of an expository speech is to inform but it may also persuade, entertain, or fulfill any other function.
3. The speech must be an original work, written by the competitor and scripted verbatim.
4. The speech may be entered in only one category per tournament. The student may place the speech in a different category in subsequent tournaments, but remember, only Expos allows for audio/visual aids or props.
5. A maximum of approximately 30% of the speech may consist of quoted material.

JR/JV Varsity Expository Presentation Rules:
1. All direct quotations and primary sources must be cited verbally within the body of the speech. Use of another person’s words or ideas without crediting them is plagiarism and it is strictly forbidden.
2. The speaker may use visual aids.
3. Audio aids and effects may be used to enhance the speech.
4. Computers are permissible.
5. The speaker must set up his/her own props (and any other aids) without the assistance of anyone else.
6. No setting up is allowed during the judges’ evaluation time between speakers.
7. Students may set down their props when they get to the front of the room. All other setup and cleanup must occur within the time limit of the speech.
8. Special clothing related to the speech may be put on, or displayed, and taken off, or hidden, during the course of the speech.
9. The speaking area must be left in the same condition as it was prior to the speech.
10. Though never expected, but as a precaution, use of weapons, explosives, or incendiary devices is prohibited.
11. Nothing may be distributed or offered to the judges or audience members.
12. People and live animals may not be used as aids in the speech.
13. While extremely unlikely, gratuitous vulgarity is strictly prohibited.
14. The timekeeper, likely the Judge, will start the timepiece when the speaker begins and will stop the timepiece when the speaker has concluded his speech.

Speaking Time Limit– five (5) minutes. No minimum time. An additional two (2) minutes is allotted for each speaker to set up before their speech and to remove their display following their speech, allowing a total of seven (7) minutes for each speaker.

JR/JV Expository Ballot

JR/JV Bible Story Impromptu

Description: In JV Bible Story Impromptu, the competitor chooses a story from the genre or category selected by the tournament. These Bible stories are listed on the tournament website weeks prior to the tournament, so the students know the full list, but will not know the exact story they are to present until they draw and choose at the tournament. Then, at the tournament, the student has limited preparation time and tells the story in their own words.

Goal: To understand the values and techniques inherent in good storytelling and to be able to recreate stories for the education and enjoyment of the audience.

JR/JV BIBLE STORY IMPROMPTU STORIES 

1. Creation Story
2. Noah’s Ark
3. Tower of Babel
4. Abraham, man of faith
5. Moses and the burning bush
6. Joshua and the Battle of Jericho
7. David and Goliath
8. Esther saves her people
9. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
10. Jonah
11. Christ is born
12. Jesus turns water into wine
13. Jesus calms the storm
14. Mary and Martha
15. The Tomb is empty
16. Jesus walks on water
17. Parable of the Prodigal Son
18. The Good Samaritan
19. Two Builders: Wise and Foolish
20. Saul, who became Paul

JR/JV Bible Story Impromptu Preparation Rules:
1. Each room will be given instructions regarding room administration as well as the envelope of topics to distribute to the students.
2. The speaker will receive three (3) single topics, choose one, and return the other two. The chosen topic should not be returned to the envelope.
3. Topics should be of the same type for all speakers in the round.
4. The competitor may edit or adapt the story in any way.
5. The timekeeper will start the stopwatch when the speaker receives the topics. Thirty (30) seconds will be allotted to choose a topic.
6. The competitor will have two minutes from the time the non-chosen topics are returned to the judges. The timekeeper will give auditory cues every thirty (30) seconds until the two (2) minute preparation time is concluded.
7. Unused preparation time may not be added to the speaking time.
8. Competitors may only enter once in the JV Bible Story Impromptu event per tournament.

JR/JV Bible Story Impromptu Presentation Rules:
1. The speaker may write notes on a blank sheet of paper during preparation time, but he may not use or refer to the notes during his speech.
2. The speaker may not bring any prepared material into the room including a Bible.
3. The speaker may approach the topic in any way he chooses, but the topic must be the central theme of the speech and not peripheral to it.
4. The speaker may refer to his topic slip when announcing his topic during the speech. He/she may not write notes on the topic slip.
5. Each speech should be a fresh, original presentation, developed from one of the topics given and prepared on the spot.
6. The speaker must state his topic early in the speech and adhere to the chosen topic.
7. No audio or visual aids or props may be used.
8. No computers, Kindles, iPods, cell phones, or other electronic media devices may be used for JV Bible Story Impromptu preparation or presentation.
9. While never expected, gratuitous vulgarity is strictly prohibited.
10. The student must not listen to other JV Bible Story Impromptu competitors speaking before him. The competitor may stay after he has given his speech to listen to subsequent speakers.

JR/JV Bible Story Impromptu Preparation time – two (2) minutes. Speaking time – three (3) minutes. No minimum time.

JR/JV Bible Story Impromptu Ballot

JR/JV Salesmanship

Description: In Salesmanship speaking the speaker is given two (2) minutes to prepare a speech on a drawn item in order to “sell” to the judge.

Goal: To create a polished speaker who can give an original, spontaneously prepared speech or “sale”, using the selected item as the central theme.

JR/JV Salesmanship Preparation Rules:
1. Each room will be given instructions regarding room administration as well as the selected items to distribute to the student.
2. The speaker will receive three (3) items, choose one, and return the other two. The chosen item should not be returned for future competitors. The item should be returned to the judges at the conclusion of the presentation.
3. The timekeeper will start the stopwatch when the speaker receives the item “bag”. Thirty (30) seconds will be allotted to choose an item.
4. The competitor will have two minutes from the time the non-chosen items are returned to the judges. The timekeeper will give auditory cues every thirty (30) seconds until the two (2) minute preparation time is concluded.
5. Unused preparation time may not be added to the speaking time.

JR/JV Salesmanship Presentation Rules:
1. The speaker may write notes on a blank sheet of paper during preparation time, but he may not use or refer to the notes during his speech.
2. The speaker may not bring any prepared material into the room.
3. The speaker may approach the topic in any way he chooses, including creative, non-traditional uses of the item, but the item must be the central theme of the speech and not peripheral to it.
4. The speaker may refer to/use their item throughout the presentation.
5. Each speech should be a fresh, original presentation, developed from one of the items given and prepared on the spot.
6. The speaker must attempt to "sell" the item.
7. No audio or visual aids or props may be used, excluding the item.
8. No computers, Kindles, iPods, cell phones, or other electronic media devices may be used for preparation or presentation.
9. As with all other JV speeches, while this is never expected, gratuitous vulgarity is strictly prohibited.
10. The student must not listen to other salesmanship competitors speaking before him. He may stay after he has given his speech to listen to subsequent speakers.

Preparation time – two (2) minutes. Speaking time – three (3) minutes. No minimum time.

JR/JV Salesmanhip Ballot

JR/JV Impromptu

Description: This is a limited preparation event. The competitor will be given time to prepare a speech on a topic given to them by the judge when they enter the competition room. The topic will be either one abstract concept, e.g."freedom" or concrete concept word, e.g. “farm". The competitor will give an introduction that contains a hook to get their listener’s attention, develop several main examples or point, and give a conclusion.

Goal: The goal of the JV Impromptu speech is to give the student an opportunity to form a simple speech quickly and efficiently.

JR/JV Impromptu Rules:
1. Speaker will have 2 minutes of preparation time.
2. The JV Impromptu Speech is not to exceed 3 minutes. The Judge will time the event.
3. Notes may not be used during the speech.
4. The Speaker will receive three choices of topic and may choose the one they like the best.
5. Props and costumes are not permitted.

Preparation time – two (2) minutes. Speaking time – three (3) minutes. No minimum time.

JR/JV Impromptu Ballot

JR/JV Original Oratory Speech (includes Persuasive & Informative speeches)

Description: An Original Oratory is a prepared speech, written by the speaker, on a topic of the speaker’s choice.

Goal: To develop a polished, winsome speaker who can present an engaging, well-organized speech on any topic.

JR/JV Original Oratory Preparation Rules:
1. The speaker may prepare a speech on any topic.
2. The purpose of the speech may be to inform, persuade, entertain, inspire, eulogize, or fulfill any other function.
3. The speech must be an original work, written by the competitor, and scripted verbatim.
4. An Original Oratory may be used in multiple leagues during any given competitive season.
5. The speech may be entered in only one category per tournament (i.e., either ‘Original Oratory’ or ‘Persuasive’ but not both). The student may place the speech in a different category in subsequent tournaments. 

6. A maximum of approximately 30% of the speech may consist of quoted material.

JR/JV Original Oratory Presentation Rules:
1. All direct quotations and primary sources must be cited verbally within the body of the speech. Use of another person’s words or ideas without crediting them is plagiarism and is strictly forbidden.
2. The script must be memorized. No written scripts or notes may be referred to in competition rounds. The competitor may receive a lower ranking for use of a written script.
3. No props, audio or visual aids may be used.
4. We do not expect this to to occur but post this rule as a standard. Gratuitous vulgarity is strictly prohibited.

5. The timekeeper will start the timepiece when the speaker begins and will stop the timepiece when the speaker has concluded his speech.

Speaking Time Limit– five (5) minutes. No minimum time.

JR/JV Original Oratory Ballot

Adult/Minor Modeling Participant Release

In consideration of my membership in Stoa, which includes the membership of all my dependent minor children, I hereby grant to Stoa and to its sponsors, and those acting with Stoa’s authority and permission, the irrevocable and unrestricted right and permission to take, use, reuse, publish, and republish photographic portraits or pictures, videos or recordings of me or of my minor children, or in which I or my minor children may be included, in whole or in part, made through any and all media now or hereafter known. I also consent to the use of any printed matter in conjunction therewith or the use of my name and/or the name(s) of my minor children, in connection therewith if Stoa so decides.

I consent to the use of my name or the name(s) of my minor children for the purposes of posting tournament results and point accrual to a Stoa designated online database.

I hereby waive any right that I or my minor children may have to inspect or approve the finished product or products.

I hereby release, discharge and agree to save harmless Stoa and its sponsors and all persons acting under its permission or authority from any liability including any claims for libel or invasion of privacy, rights of publicity, copyright or otherwise. I hereby warrant that I am a legal competent adult and that I have every right to contract for myself and/or the minor in the above regard. I state further that I have read the above authorization, release, and agreement, prior to its execution, and that I am fully familiar with the contents of it.

PHOTO RELEASE

The Stoa Marketing Committee would like to feature our tournament on social media in a short video reel. We will have a photographer onsite taking short video clips to use in our reel. This will be a fun way to remember our 2025 David Helton Fall Forensics Forum Tournament and to attract new families to Stoa. If you  would like to opt out of the videos, please email the tournament director.

Hotels & Lodging Convenient to Grace Baptist Church:

1. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Nashville North Skyline : This hotel is closest to the Church,  3451 Dickerson Road, Madison, TN 37207.
2. Goodlettsville Hotel Options around Conference Center Drive are a 12–14-minute drive: THESE ARE:
3. Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville/Goodlettsville, 860 Conference Dr, Goodlettsville, TN 37072
4. Opryland Area Hotel Options are a 15-minute drive: THIS MAP SHOWS HOTELS IN THIS AREA 
5. Directions to Opryland Area Hotels.
6. VRBO options in the area:
7. This VRBO property is the closest to Grace Baptist Church.
8. Another VRBO property. 
9. A 3rd VRBO property.
10. More Hotels in the Opryland Area:
11. Holiday Inn Express-Nashville-Opryland by IHG, 2461 McGavock Pike, Nashville, 37214.
12. Spark by Hilton, Nashville Opryland, 2516 Music Valley Drive, Nashville, 37214. 
13. Courtyard by Marriott, Nashville Opryland, 125 Music City Circle, Nashville, 37214.
14. Fairfield by Marriott, Nashville Opryland, 211 Music City Circle, Nashville, 37214.
15. Best Western Suites, Opryland, 201 Music City Circle, Nashville, 37214. 
16. Residence Inn, Nashville Opryland, 2500 Music Valley Drive, 37214.
17. Comfort Inn, Nashville Opryland, 2460 Music Valley Drive, 37214.
18. Hampton Inn & Suites, Nashville Opryland, 230 Rudy Circle, 37214.
19. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Nashville Opryland, 210 Rudy Circle, 37214.

Host Housing Info & Request for David Helton Fall Forensics Forum Tournament:         

For decades Christian homeschool speech & debate tournaments have worked to provide host housing for out-of-town participants. Ambassador Club will try to provide host housing for out-of-town participants and guests who request it, but space is limited, and housing cannot be guaranteed. Be sure to reply quickly and let us know early of your request.

If you have stayed with hosts in the past, you may request the same hosts, but please request host housing officially through our Host Housing contact and do not contact past hosts directly. To request Host Housing for this tournament, send your request to: Esther Crandall at esther@vjah.com. Thank you.

Copy and paste the info below, complete the information needed, and email it directly to Esther’s email listed above. Let Esther know if you wish host housing with hosts from past Ambassador tournaments & include their names. Host Housing is on a first come, first served basis.

Specify in the subject line of your email tournament and give your last name, e.g., “Ambassador Tournament Host Housing – Smith”.Again, send your email to Esther at esther@vjah.com beginning on Monday, Oct. 13, 2025. Make your request as soon as possible. At the latest, you will hear back from her by Wednesday, November 5th.

You will be contacted as soon as possible to confirm your housing. At the latest, you will hear back from her by Wednesday, November 5th.

HOST HOUSING REQUEST: Copy, the host housing request below, answer questions, include & send this in your request email to Esther at esther@vjah.com asap.

We would like host housing for the Ambassadors for Christ Tournament. I am requesting housing for the following nights: (please indicate)

Wednesday night, November 19th
Thursday night, November 20th
Friday night, November, Nvember21st

If you're unable to travel home following the conclusion of the tournament, there may be host homes that would/could accommodate you an additional night, Saturday, November 22nd. Be sure to make this request if needed & also clairify your eintended departure time Sunday moring, Nov.23.

Name:
Address:
Home phone:
Cell phone:
Email address:
How many people do you need housing for?
How many males?
How many females?

Name(s) of adult(s) needing housing:

Do you need housing for a married couple?
Name(s) and Age(s) of student(s) needing housing:
Special considerations (i.e. allergies, etc.)

What You can Expect from Your Host Home:

1. A place to sleep (bed, sofa, pallet on the floor, or room on the floor for your air mattress, cots &/or sleeping bags)
   2. A bathroom to shower and get ready for tournament
2. 3. Usually no meals.

What Your Host Will Expect From You & Your Family:

1.     A Christ-like grateful attitude

2.     Carefully supervised children at all times regardless of age. All students must be supervised by parents at all times while in host homes.

3.     Cleanliness & care of yourselves & host home.

4.     No smoking in or near host homes