By Pauline Dagaas

Speech members Michaila Nate, Kelsey Schaffer, and Luke Bumpus prepare their upcoming Speech meet. Photo by: Pauline Dagaas

As the school year progresses, the 2010-2011 Speech & Debate season begins, challenging contestants throughout the nation and opening doors to the world of oratorical competition.

With the first couple meets beginning in October, the Plymouth High School Speech & Debate team has been consistently preparing for their events, whether it be individually or with the guidance of the various coaches on hand. Although the prep work done prior to each competition varies among all events, the time and effort put into it stands as somewhat common ground. Without a doubt, the schedule of a team member can be hectic at times and with weekend tournaments ranging from early hours to late afternoons/evenings, some may be reluctant to participate.

Senior Bryt Hiatt understands such reason, but takes a more positive approach. “One of the most challenging parts is getting up at an ungodly hour every Saturday, but it’s worth it!” First joining this activity in the seventh grade, Hiatt’s original motivation to become a part of this group was out of pure curiosity and experience. Continuing throughout his high school years, the dedication he has put into his events have in turn, benefitted him as well. “Speech has helped me to become a much better communicator and writer, and has especially helped me in English class,” he says.
For others, the benefits have bettered their character and inspired inner confidence. “I am more outgoing now and I have much less fear when acting or speaking in front of people. Also having done speech since middle school Jason Pickell finds that he has been able to overcome his fear of public speaking and in addition, has gained a sense of personal accomplishment.

Although senior Sarah Gouker was introduced to speech last year, she has pursued it this year as well. “I first joined to be involved and perform. However, the friends, memories and opportunities were greater than I ever imagined.”  Not only has speech taught her about “taking your personal best to a new level”, it has also enlightened her in terms of what it means to be a team player. “It is great to win individually, however, winning together as one is the absolute best.” She comments.
Novices may gather speech to be a bit stressful and tedious specially towards the start of the season, but  experienced members encourage all to continue, giving numerous tips and advice to help ease the nerves and make the season their best.

For starters, Patrick Felke advises, “Don’t worry about early stress or problems, it’ll get easier and you’ll have success if you work at it.” Secondly, Gouker admits it helps to simply take every meet one step at a time. “I thrived on winning”, she says, “and when it didn’t happen I was heartbroken. Just take a deep breath.” Her tip of course goes hand in hand with the old saying. “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.”
Pickell agrees with the previous statement and through his own personal experience believes, “It’s a lot of hard work, but the benefits you get from speech will help tons in your future life.”
And finally, what Hiatt most recommends novices to do is to simply have a good time. “Don’t forget to have fun!” he encourages. “It takes a lot of hard work to achieve your goals in speech but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, too!”

Evidently, the perks of being a member of the Speech & Debate team are far more than “something that looks great on a college application.” It not only serves as an academic extracurricular but also as an experience that has affected those involved, for the better.