Students in Speech Head to State

Wrapping up a great year, the Maple Lake Speech Team sent five members to state: seniors Greta Brown, Jake Hayes, Hope Jude, Calli Hadler, and junior Anna McClelland. The Minnesota Speech competition took place on Saturday, April 23 at Eastview High School in Apple Valley. The state competition is an amazing opportunity for all, and for many it was their last opportunity to compete, with four out of the five Maple Lake members that competed at state being seniors. “Honestly, I joined [speech] just because my friends were doing it,” said Brown. “It is a very inclusive sport where everyone is supportive and wants people to join, so any time I brought it up people would say I should!” Brown received fifth place at state in the category of exempt speaking.

Speech offers various areas of competition and room for flexibility. Advice Hadler would give younger or new speech members is, “Don’t be afraid to try a new category if it isn’t working.” Hadler began her speech career in seventh grade competing in one category, but after having competed, decided she found a better fit for herself in another category. Hadler placed sixth in the category of original oratory at state. 

During the speech season members put in a lot of time, effort, and dedication. They also find time to laugh, make memories with their fellow team members, and celebrate their goals and accomplishments throughout the season. “The highlight of my season this year was having three consecutive first place finishes, including conference and sections,” said McClelland. “Next year I am most looking forward to getting to take on a leading role as a senior, help promote the team, and to help the younger kids find a niche as I did.”