What to Expect:

Description of activity: Students choosing from 13 different competitive speech events to prepare and present in tournament contests. There is something for everyone: drama, current events, persuasive speaking or creative expression.

Where to go for more information: Ms. Ensign in room 1103

Length of season: The first team meetings start in January and the State Speech Tournament takes place in April.

Practice and/or meeting times: The team meets as a whole one day a month after school. Beyond that, students sign up for individual work sessions with your coach at least once a week. Since we coach one on one, the days can be pretty flexible.

Practice and/or meeting site: Johnson Senior High in room 1103

Competitions: Competitions take all day Saturday. Compete in approximately 6-8 Saturday meets. The section tournament is on a weeknight in March. Speakers who qualify attend the state meet in April. Students also may compete in a national qualifying tournament in March. National Tournaments are held in May and June.

Eligibility requirements: Members must be making satisfactory progress towards graduation and meet team expectations. Meet the MSHSL and Saint Paul Public Schools Eligibility Requirements.

Costs and/or needed equipment: Students must wear business attire at competitions. Please let your coach know if you need help getting appropriate attire.

Awards criteria & type of awards: Students may win trophies at tournaments.

Student leadership opportunities: Team captains