Every year Saint Louis U. High students compete in the Catholic Interscholastic Speech League meet along with students from other Catholic schools. Students can compete in a variety of categories including poetry, radio broadcasting, extemporaneous speech, and are scored by judges. As reigning champs, SLUH had high hopes going into this year's competition. 

Like many other activities, the meet was online this year to ensure the safety of participants. This was the first ever virtual meet, as students and officials were nervous going into the tournament because interaction between performers was limited. Duet acting and duet improv were especially difficult since partners could not be in contact with each other. 

“We were so nervous as coaches. But we really felt, in terms of everyone’s safety, that it would be best if we did it online. And, actually it went fairly smoothly.” Said Whitaker, “It went as well as it could’ve gone for the first virtual meet. So we’re pretty pleased, and I think that we’ll probably stay that way, certainly for the next meet.” 

“I would describe it as an experiment obviously, because it was the first time this has ever been a thing,” said senior Carter Fortman. “But I would also describe it as a success, and that is because although it was weird, although it was different. Amid the pandemic it was a great way to keep the competition going and to keep the students involved.”

Just like teachers, the judges were prepared for technical difficulties and had everything planned beforehand. They had the students go into breakout rooms for every round, and were tolerant of technical difficulties. Even though there was a good plan used, some things, such as lag and cut outs, were unavoidable. 

“As a teacher, you’re prepared for that, and you can’t penalize someone when that really happens. You just help them out to get back in,” said Whitaker. “The whole lag time is a bit of an issue, especially in a duet scene.” 

For Fortman, his category, extemporaneous speech, was actually easier online.

“For extemporaneous speaking, it was easier because I didn’t have to make eye contact with the person, because usually the hardest part is seeing the judge in front of me scrutinizing my speech whenever I give it,” said Fortman, “It’s pretty much like writing a SLUH English essay, but you just say it off the top of your head, you can have a small note card there, but you don't really have enough time to write the speech out.” 

As the reigning champions, SLUH had high hopes going into the competition. Unfortunately, SLUH did not perform up to its usual standards, one of the reasons being that almost the entire team had graduated last year. Fortman was one of the few remaining team members. He was also one of the few team members to finish in first place for round one and round two, finishing overall with a blue ribbon. Luckily though, many new students joined and competed for SLUH. Many freshmen joined and competed this year, being brave and helping SLUH return to the top.

“We have a lot of work to do on our team, and almost my entire team graduated. So every program has to build again,” said Whitaker. “In terms of a team, we usually place way at the top because we usually have a full team. But with a new team, it's gonna take some time to get our muscles up to strength. But we will.” 

“We do two competitions,” said Fortman. “The scores from each are averaged, and you get the final meet results. Once mine were averaged I actually came out on top. I got first place in the first round and I got first place in the second round, which I think I was one of the only people in the competition to do that. Which, for me, was pretty cool.” 

Team member junior Donovan Meacham believed the team is talented and works hard, but that the team needs to be more confident and start truly feeling what they are presenting. Though Meacham wasn’t sure what to expect going into the meet he was glad he participated and highly recommends it. Meacham competed in the poetry category at the meet and recited a poem by Jean Ingelow. The meet gave Meacham an opportunity to work on his speaking skills and present work from a poet that interests him.

“Her poetry spoke to me more than the other poets, it’s faith-based and focuses on dealing with emotions,” said Meachem. 

When Nov. 15 rolls around, SLUH will not only be looking forward to competing again, but to have some fun. With the young team having one meet under their belts, they are no doubt going to improve for the next time round. And can take this valuable experience into the next one. 

“If I were to give any of the newcomers any advice I would just tell them to keep on learning their stuff and to keep on practicing their skills,” said Fortman, “it is a rebuilding year, we’re a young team, unfortunately I won’t be able to see the end result of what these young guys are gonna be able to do. But a senior I’m here for them and I’m excited to see how they progress throughout the year.”