The students of Kimball High School’s speech and debate team are preparing to host the school’s first tournament Jan. 26 — all they need are the judges.

About 75 volunteers are needed to judge more than 300 Yosemite Forensic League students competing in categories from impromptu speaking, dramatic interpretation and Lincoln-Douglas debate, according to Renee Koon, the forensics coach for Kimball High.

“When there aren’t enough judges, the tournaments end very late, and sometimes the final round has to be canceled,” Koon said. “We want our tournament to be successful and to avoid this problem.”

Events begin at 8 a.m. and sometimes last until 7:30 p.m., but Koon said those who want to help determine the tournament’s winners don’t have to stay for the entire day.

“Any time morning or afternoon that can be given would be a great help.”

Those interested can attend a training session Saturday, Jan. 12. Former California Speech Association President John Cardoza will lead the forum, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon at the Kimball library, 3200 Jaguar Run.

• Contact Jon Mendelson at 830-4231 or jmendelson@tracypress.com.