The recent achievements of the NECC speech team are proof that with training, hard work, and a lot of heart, even beginners can be champions. The speech team, comprised entirely of freshmen, earned its 50th trophy at a South Dakota State University speech tournament last week. The team brought home a total of 12 trophies from its performances at SDSU.

A total of 4 trophies were won during the first day of competition, with winners consisting of Joe Lose (4th, program of oral interpretation), Drew Sempek & Joe Lose (5th, duo interpretation), and Benjamin Temple (6th, impromptu speaking).

Even more awards were gained during the second day of competition with 8 trophies being won by Joe Lose (3rd and top novice, program of oral interpretation), Drew Sempek (5th, program of oral interpretation), Drew Sempek & Joe Lose (6th, duo interpretation), Jordan Sager & Musa Fofana (5th, duo interpretation), and Benjamin Temple (6th, extemporaneous speaking).

Hopefully NECC’s momentum will continue as they prepare to compete in the Junior Varsity National Tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas next week. Competition will be stiff, but if the recent accomplishments of the NECC team are any indicator, they will be more than up to the task of defending their National Title. Updates on NECC’s progress to follow.