Many things look different this school year, including the way students participate in extracurricular activities, like forensics (speech and debate). Students competing in forensics this year have been excited to still have the opportunity to compete, but have had to make a few adjustments along the way. All tournaments this year are being held virtually. Students in speech events record videos of themselves performing their pieces, and submit the videos to be judged. A few tournaments have offered live virtual speech events, where competition is facilitated through the National Speech & Debate Association’s (NSDA) Campus tool, which functions similarly to Zoom. Practices are also being held virtually, which has been an adjustment, but has actually opened up more opportunity for individualized coaching. Assistant Coach Kate Manuel has enjoyed the opportunity to help the students grow as performers and noted that the new format provides the students the freedom to watch themselves. “When the students go back and watch their presentation, they can see or hear more clearly some of the things we’re working on, like facial expressions or enunciation, and that has helped them to improve,” Manuel shared. OLSH students have adapted well to the new format, placing at several local tournaments so far. While they miss the social aspect of the activity, connecting with friends from other schools, they are glad to still have the opportunity to compete and develop their speaking and acting skills. “I’m proud of the students for continuing to participate in forensics this year,” said head coach Jessica Cerchiaro. “This year has required more independent work, and the OLSH team is rising to the challenge.”

Forensics at OLSH runs from September through April. Students are invited to get involved at any time! If interested, please contact head coach Jessica Cerchiaro at [email protected] to learn more.

OLSH Forensics Team Results (as of 1/7/2021)

Bernie Komoroski ’22: 5th place, Dramatic Performance, M&M Lake Erie Invitational Tournament; 6th place, Dramatic Performance, Moon Tournament

Katarina Komoroski ’23: 6th place, Dramatic Performance, Dalmasse Sterner Steel City Invitational; 5th place, Dramatic Peformance, Moon Tournament

Clare & Olivia Mulvay ’23: 4th place, Duo Interp, North Catholic Invitational; 3rd place, Duo Interp, USC Sparkle Season Spectacular

Chloe Walz ’22: 5th place, Poetry, North Catholic Invitational