Contest Rules Announcements
It was agreed by the top three of District 31 in June 2009 that we would implement the rule for four clubs in an area. This was stressed at the district officer training in June and repeated at the TLIs. That rule is:
In those areas with four assigned clubs or less eight weeks prior to the area contest, districts have the option to allow the two highest placed available contestants from each club to compete in the area contest.
Contest
Quick Links
- District 31 Area & Division Contest Schedule
- Contest Deadlines
- Why should you compete?
- Why should you volunteer?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contest Eligibility Requirements
- Speech Contest Rulebook
- Division & Area Contest Best Practices
- Area Contest Checklist
- Division Contest Checklist
- Contestmaster Script
- Contestmaster Briefing Checklist
- Chief Judge Briefing Checklist
- International Speech Contest Ballot
- International Speech Contest Tie BreakerBallot
District 31 Speech Contests
Speech Contests provide an opportunity for participating members to grow and for nonparticipating members to learn by observing proficient speakers. They also offer interesting educational programs for members and the public.
It's important that all contests be conducted fairly and that the rules are followed.
Since a speech contest is a public event, it should be planned carefully and conducted professionally. It is the contest chairman's responsibility to see that this is done. He or she must plan the contest budget, make room and audio arrangements, conduct a pre-contest and post-contest public relations program, and see that all bills for the event are promptly paid.
The contest chairman must make sure that: each speaker is eligible to compete and is familiar with the contest rules; audiovisual equipment is working; judges, timers, and counters are briefed on their duties; ballots are counted carefully; and that awards are presented to the winners in a ceremony that will inspire pride in Toastmasters. Although a committee may be formed to help with these tasks, it is the contest chairman's responsibility to make sure they are done.
District 31 offers two contest cycles per District year: Humorous and International Speech.