Dear forensics coach,

As long as I’ve been working with our school’s speech and debate team, it has been my pleasure to start our season off with the Shikellamy High School Earlybird Tournament for novice speakers and debaters.  The Shikellamy coaching and support team have always done an outstanding job of setting a great tone and creating an educational environment for new students to the forensics world in the Earlybird and it is our intention to continue the tradition this year at State High.  The goal for this tournament is fun, supportive, friendly competition and a chance to help our newcomers have a positive first experience in their speech and debate events. 

Any first-year competitor, regardless of age, is eligible to compete in this three-round tournament.  Although most competitors will be high school students, interested middle-school students are also welcome to compete.  Experienced juniors and seniors may judge at this tournament.    This will be a short tournament (3 rounds only) and lunch is available for purchase.  We are additionally planning to run several workshops – both for students and for judges -- prior to the start of the tournament. 

We look forward to seeing you in October, 

Jen Rand

Tournament Invitation