Birmingham Area Debate League
The Birmingham Area Debate League (BADL) is a competitive Public Forum debate league serving the greater Birmingham community by providing a low-barrier forum for students to learn and compete.
The BADL hosts a season of debate tournaments at no cost to attendees, allowing schools to participate regardless of their programmatic funding. For more information on how to join the BADL, please reach out to Dr. Lee Quinn and TJ Riggs.
Tournament Dates
Fall Schedule
- Tuesday, October 22nd
- Tuesday, November 19th
Tentative Spring Schedule
- Tuesday, February 4th
- Tuesday, March 4th
- Friday/Saturday, TBD
Fall Semester Topic
“Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially expand its surveillance infrastructure along its southern border.”
Evidence packets for both the Pro and Con are available for all BADL Competitors. For access to the packet and other educational debate resources, please reach out to Dr. Lee Quinn or TJ Riggs.
FAQs
Q: Where are tournaments located?
A: All BADL tournaments will be hosted on Samford’s campus. Check-in will take place in Brooks Hall Room #113.
Q: Are there any entry fees for tournaments or the league?
A: No! The BADL is designed to keep the barriers-to-entry as low as possible for all participants. We will never charge fees for participating in the league, our season tournaments, or our coaching program. All we ask is that teams provide judges for tournaments, no experience required.
Q: My student is interested in debating, but their school does not have a program. How can we still get involved?
A: While we are unable to accept entries without a school affiliation, we would love to work with your student’s school in setting up a program. Please reach out to Dr. Lee Quinn and TJ Riggs for more information.
Q: I am an educator and am interested in starting a debate program at my school, how can I get involved?
A: Please reach out to Dr. Lee Quinn and TJ Riggs for more information on starting a debate team at your school. We will do everything we can to help facilitate the process!
