The Hastings Tiger speech team started off the season strong with students medaling consistency at both Varsity and Novice levels. Their season began in January and since then they have had five meets.
Senior Sanie Davis, who is participating in speech for his first year at Hastings High and prefers speeches that involve acting, enjoys many aspects of speech, particularly amusing people.
“My favorite part about speech is getting to act as somebody and entertain the audience, whether it is making them laugh or cry,” Davis said.
Junior Christine Phuong, who is in her third year of speech and prefers more serious, informational speech styles, is fond of speech for various reasons.
“My favorite part of speech is expressing myself in front of others. It’s definitely a way to express my voice to an audience about what I am passionate about. It’s also very rewarding to deliver a piece I’ve worked hard on to a group of people,” Phuong said.
Being on the speech team has taught members many valuable lessons that will benefit them even after high school.
“Speech has helped me step out of my comfort zone through the years and taught me the meaning of self-confidence, and learning to deliver any piece in front of an audience is super valuable,” senior Mary Ferrone said.
Writing and performing speeches in front of people teaches skills that are applicable to life in many ways.
“Speech helps me tremendously in life because it has made me a better public speaker, and I am able to talk to people more comfortably. It also helps me with my communication skills. It works especially for job interviews when you have to be able to communicate professionally,” Davis said.
Aside from public speaking skills, there are many benefits to participating in speech; members of the team highly encourage other students to join the club.
“I think all students should join speech! It’s a great way to learn to effectively communicate and build confidence. Plus it looks great on resumes. Just talk to Ms. Williams or any members if you’re interested” Phuong said.
For more information on speech, visit this website: https://www.speechanddebate.org/membership/
