How Can I Compete in Speech Without Joining My School’s Team?
I used to be a member of my school’s speech and debate team, but I decided to leave because of a challenging dynamic with my coach. I’m still eager to participate in speech competitions, but I’m looking for options beyond my school environment. Are there any independent organizations, open tournaments, or virtual competitions available for me to join? I’d love to hear any advice or suggestions from those who have experience competing in speech outside of a school team!
Absolutely, it’s great to hear that you still want to compete in speech! There are definitely options for you outside of your school’s team. Here are some avenues you might consider:
Independent Speech Organizations: Look for local or national speech and debate organizations that allow independent competitors. Some organizations run tournaments specifically for students not associated with a school team.
Open Tournaments: Many local competitions are open to all competitors, regardless of school affiliation. Keep an eye on community colleges, local universities, and independent debate organizations for listings.
Online Competitions: With virtual events gaining popularity, you can find a variety of online competitions that welcome independent participants. Websites like Speech and Debate Online (SADO) or various social media groups often share information about upcoming events.
Speech Clubs: Join or form a speech club in your area. Many clubs welcome individual members and can provide opportunities for practice and competition.
Workshops or Camps: Look for workshops or summer camps focused on speech and debate. They often culminate in competition and provide valuable coaching and networking opportunities.
Connect with Former Competitors: Reach out to people from your previous team or other competitors you know. They may have insights on competitions or even be able to connect you with independent events or mentors.
Online Resources: Websites and forums dedicated to speech and debate are great places for finding resources, advice, and upcoming competitions. Places like the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) have directories that might be helpful.
It might take some extra effort to find the right opportunities, but there are plenty of ways to stay involved in speech without a school team. Best of luck in your pursuits, and keep honing your skills!