Walker Talkers return to in-person competition

   Like other high school extracurricular activities in the state of Minnesota, competitive speech was significantly impacted by the ongoing pandemic. However, while most activities were able to maintain an in-person level of competition by limiting spectators, mandating masks and encouraging social distancing, Speech had to put a pause on in-person tournaments completely. As an alternative, the speakers competed virtually. 

   During the 2020-2021 season, speakers put on their suits, traveled to the school and logged into a chatroom to compete with speakers from other schools. Even though this was a less than favorable alternative, the team experienced a lot of success, sending three speakers to the virtual state tournament. 

   This year, many teams have decided to bring back in-person competition, including The WHA Speech team. Two weeks ago, the team traveled to Pequot Lakes to compete in their early bird competition and last weekend the team traveled to Grand Rapids to compete in their early competition as well. The team took home awards from both competitions: 

Ada Muller competed in discussion at both tournaments; she placed 6th overall at Pequot Lakes and earned a red ribbon at Grand Rapids. Lily Burns competed in Humor at Pequot Lakes and placed 6th overall. Sophia Landreville competed in Poetry in both tournaments; she placed 6th overall at Pequot Lakes and earned a white ribbon at Grand Rapids. Natalie Resch-Seely competed in Discussion at both tournaments; she earned an honorable mention at Pequot Lakes. 

   Overall, the team is excited for the upcoming season. With the return of in-person tournaments and several new speakers on the team, there is a lot to look forward to. However, there are also a lot of uncertainties. As the pandemic forces school districts to shift, we must always be ready to make adjustments. Last year was difficult, but we proved as a team that we can endure a difficult season and still be competitive. We plan to continue with that attitude this season. 

   This weekend the team will travel to Fergus Falls to compete in the Otter Orations tournament.