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Biblical Thematic

Rules

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Biblical Thematic Rules

Event Rules, which include the corresponding definitions, set the boundaries for what is allowed within the competition space and time for the specified event. These rules apply under the umbrella of our Tournament Participation Policies, Judge Policies, Compliance Policies, and our overarching League Affiliation Policies.

  • Speech General Rules

    A. General Rules for All Speeches

    Rules below reflect the 2025-26 season. Please check back in August for updates. All rules will be finalized by the end of October for the 2026-27 competition season.

    1. Mission Alignment. Speeches must be in alignment with the NCFCA Mission Statement. Any speech content that advocates a position counter to the Foundational Beliefs of the league will not be allowed in competition. 
      1. Content. All content must be free from vulgar, heinous, sexually explicit, obscene, profane, or inappropriate material. This includes explicit and implied language or gestures.
      2. Disclaimer. Any speech that contains potentially intense or sensitive themes or examples must be preceded by this disclaimer: “This speech contains potentially intense or sensitive material.”  The speaker should then allow any time necessary for audience members to exit the room if they choose to do so.
      3. Theme. Any dark themes must provide a redemptive element.
    2. Presentation.
      1. Pre-show. A pre-show is not permitted. 
      2. Professionalism. Only feet are permitted to intentionally touch the floor at any time. Gymnastics is not permitted.
      3. Additional items. Costumes and visual aids are not permitted. (The visual aids in Biblical Presentation and the slides in Digital Presentation are exceptions.)
    3. Interaction. Requesting verbal or physical participation (e.g., raising hand, clapping, verbal responses, closing eyes) from audience members, including judges, is not permitted. 
    4. Electronic Devices. Competitors may not access electronic devices to prepare the speech or conduct research during the round. Requesting, sending, or receiving information is also prohibited.

  • Speech Event Rule Violation Penalties

    The following penalties will be applied for confirmed rule violations as described below.

    • Relatively minor issues, generally relating to timing of prep time or speech time: 2-Rank Penalty 
    • Rule violations that are not likely to have created a significant competitive advantage: 4-Rank Penalty
    • Rule violations that have the potential to create a significant competitive advantage: Eight-rank Penalty.
    • Speeches that violate Academic Integrity Rules, Missional Rules or League Affiliation Policies are subject to penalties up to and including disqualification of the speech from further competition.