How Can I Compete in Speech Without Involvement from My School’s Team?
I used to be on my school’s speech and debate team but stepped away due to some challenges with my coach. I still have a strong desire to participate in speech competitions, but I’m looking for options outside of my school. Are there any independent organizations, open tournaments, or virtual competitions I can consider? I’d love to hear any insights from those who have competed in speech independently! Thank you!
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There are definitely options for competing in speech outside of your school team! Here are some avenues to explore:
Independent Speech Tournaments: Many regions host independent tournaments that welcome competitors from any background. Check resources like the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) or other local speech organizations for upcoming events. Websites like SpeechWire or Tabroom might list independent competitions.
Online Competitions: Since virtual competitions have become more popular, you can find online tournaments that might be more flexible with team requirements. Platforms like Zoom could be used for competing in events they offer.
Speech Clubs: Look into local or community speech clubs where individuals practice and compete without being tied to a school team. Clubs may be affiliated with national organizations but operate independently.
Forensic Associations: Some states have forensic organizations that hold events throughout the year. Getting involved with your state’s forensic community can open up a lot of opportunities.
Networking: Reach out to former members of your school’s team or alumni who are now involved in speech. They might have insight into where you can find tournaments or competitions and could even connect you with independent teams or events.
Workshops and Camps: Look for speech workshops or camps that focus on competition skills. Not only can these improve your abilities, but they also often culminate in some form of competition.
Social Media and Forums: Join forums or social media groups that focus on speech and debate. They can be a great resource for finding competitions and connecting with others in the community.
Don’t hesitate to take the initiative to research and reach out. Good luck, and I hope you find the right opportunities to showcase your skills!