The Spectrum High School speech team is proving that speech is about more than competition. For members, it is a place where friendships form, confidence grows, and a sense of community is built.
Speech Captain Lyla Mack said speech often gets misunderstood by people who have never been part of it. While some may see it as overly competitive or intimidating, she believes it is often something much more meaningful.
Lyla Mack said, “When you hear speech team, you think a bunch of nerds. And while that may be the case sometimes, I think the speech team is so much more than just overachieving geeks. It’s such an empowering thing to be a part of. And I think you can carry it with you your whole entire life.”
For newer members, the welcoming environment makes all the difference. Julia Traugott remembers her first practice as confusing at first, but the kindness of the team stood out immediately.
Julia Traugott said, “Walking into my first practice was a little chaotic. I didn’t really understand what was going on, but I knew right away that everyone was super nice, and it definitely followed that way. I really appreciate the way the team members act and how they include everyone.”
Although speech events are performed individually, team members rely heavily on each other throughout the season. Mack said having a group to lean on during tournaments makes the experience more meaningful.
Mack said, “Speech is founded on friendship. When you go to tournaments and you’re competing against other people, you want to have that team to lean on.”
Many of those friendships are strengthened during early mornings and long travel days. According to Mack, van rides to competitions create some of the most memorable moments.
Mack said, “The early morning van rides on Saturday mornings, I think, is what brings the team together the most. Sitting in the van together, you’re freezing cold, we’re sharing blankets. Sometimes Coach will bring muffins or something, and it’s just that bonding experience before we go in and start competing for the day.”
Coach Terry Warnke sees that sense of camaraderie continue during practices, where collaboration is encouraged among students of all grade levels.
Terry Warnke said, “While I might be meeting one-on-one with a particular student, we have many of our other teammates working with each other at that same time. And so, that in combination with the fact that we’re 7th through 12th all together, there’s a lot of camaraderie that’s built by having that approach.”
This year, the speech team has also experienced growth in numbers. Warnke said the increase has changed the way the team practices and travels.
Warnke said, “Our team has grown by just two or three more people this year, which puts us now kind of in a new category. We’re taking a bus instead of a van and we have to break up our practices in a different way and we take up a full row in the theaters at awards ceremonies now.”
Beyond team growth, speech has had a personal impact on students. Freshman Abigail Johnson said being part of the team has helped her grow more confident.
As the season continues, the Spectrum High School speech team looks forward to more competitions, stronger performances, and continued growth both individually and as a team.