Without volunteers to judge, the students cannot conduct their practiced Speech and Debate performances. This is where the community is asked to get involved.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or know very little about Speech and Debate, Head Coach Katie Roberts shares that “all you need is an opinion.” You don’t need any prerequisites other than that-and everyone has an opinion.
Roberts has been coaching for 10 years and has seen a decade of Speech and Debate students grow while adults in the community volunteer to hear what they have to say. These volunteer judges are given the opportunity to be proven that the future is bright because students like these. They are our upcoming leaders and contributing community members–students with the motivation to become better and represent their beliefs and face fears.
Roberts is asking that members of the community check the online sign up schedule and volunteer just an hour of time (or more if you are able) to help this group of students perform in the tournament hosted by Star Valley High School. Other schools and number of participants include Evanston (51), Jackson (46), Riverton (43), and Green River (41). The events include; Congressional Debate, Lincoln Douglas Debate, Policy Debate, Public Forum Debate, Drama, Duo, Exempt, Humor, Impromptu, Informative, Oratory, POI, and Poetry.
Many volunteer slots are needed to be filled to help make the tournament a success. Roberts shared how in past tournaments they have attended, students had to wait in rooms with no judge, unable to perform what they have spent countless hours practicing.
If you are still thinking you won’t be a good fit, or don’t have the experience needed, think again, then sign up! Nicki Heiner and her culinary students will be hosting a hospitality room for the judges. Roberts adds, “this is reason enough to judge as it is going to be delicious!”
The students have been attending tournaments the past two weeks, bringing in wins.
Roberts highlighted both Brooklyn Bach (Junior) and Cooper Daniel (Senior). Brooklyn Bach took third in the first tournament of the year in Evanston, then second place in Riverton this past week. “Brooklyn…is set up this year to really be a power house.”
Daniel took first for the Congressional Debate in Evanston and sixth in Riverton. “He too is poised to be on the stage all year,” shares Roberts. “Other achievements include Chloe Goodson placing fourth in Drama, Ian Coles advancing to semis in Impromptu, Ireland Fildes placing third, and Cameron Trefren advancing to semi finals in Humor.”
The team this year is composed of three seniors, seven juniors, five sophomores, and six freshmen. “We are learning a lot and hope to peak at State in Cheyenne in March.”
Roberts continued to talk about how the growth of each student ranges from being poised and ready for large stages, to students working to get better at showing confidence while speaking by making eye contact or preventing fidgeting.
For those interested in judging, Roberts asks that you sign up at https://www.signupgenius.com/
When you come to judge, please bring a tablet or computer if possible–the judging sheets are easier to fill out on those devices.
For anyone who would like extra information, feel free to contact Katie Roberts at karoberts@lcsd2.org and/or attend the optional training on Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Star Valley High School Library.
