Lori Hartin had an opportunity to witness firsthand the growth and accomplishments of numerous young people over the 10 years she has coached the Madill Speech team. With each passing year, the coach has continued to be amazed by the talent, dedication, and hard work of the students. This year was no exception.
The Regional competition is a significant event for the team, as it is a chance for the students to showcase their skills and qualify for the State competition. The coach acknowledged the intensity of the competition, noting that Regionals can be even more challenging than State because everything has to be accomplished in one day. Despite the long and grueling day, the students shone bright, and the coach praised their achievements.
Abby Zang advanced to State with 2nd place in Original Oratory. Ben Perkins placed with 2nd place in Humorous Interpretation. Chance Whitman advanced with 3rd place in Humorous Interpretation, and along with Grace Hartin, advanced with 4th place in Humorous Duet. Andie Wallace was named 1st alternate in OO, while Reese Campbell and Julian Barrientos were 1st alternate in DD. Addy Miller advanced as 2nd alternate in DI, and Evelyn Munoz-Perez was named 1st alternate in SO. After their last performance of the day, traditionally the kids change out of their professional clothes into their speech shirts and casual wear such as jeans or pajamas. This year’s speech shirts highlight the teams upcoming production of The Wizard of Oz that will be performed at the Madill Elementary Auditorium on April 27th and 28th at 6pm.
It takes a village to help young people succeed. Former speech alumni Makayla Faulkner and Alejandra Salas helped judge rounds to pour back into the activity that poured into their growth as high schoolers. Co-Coach Samantha Faulkner drove the speech team to Seminole at 7am and all 15 students came back to the Fine Arts Building safely at 11pm. Coach Hartin highlights how much of a marathon the regional event is and remined the students throughout the day to stay consistent throughout their performances.
Hartin expressed their appreciation for the students who did not qualify for State, recognizing that the competition is fierce, and even a onepoint difference can make all the difference. The coach's message of love and support wasclear:thestudents'worth is not determined by whether or not they bring home a medal. The memories each makeandhowtheygrowduring each step of the process.