Forensics talk its way back to prominence
Contributing writer
As the new year comes to a start, Marion High School’s forensics team is springing into action.
At its core, forensics is a competitive version of theater. Most would consider it a hyped-up version of speech class.
Hours are spent memorizing and rehearsing pieces that later are performed in front of a judge and scored based on performance.
Meets typically start before school hours and end long after the last bell rings.
Team members dedicate their Saturdays to the sport and return home with loads of homework awaiting them.
Like many competitors, they do not receive credit for how much work they put in when their hands already are full.
What started off as a small team has grown into a flourishing and successful community.
When a former coach stepped down, the team disappeared for a few years, but a new coach was on his way to save the team even if he did not know it.
Topher Rome agreed to accept the position four years ago. Team numbers have shot back up and so have results.
Rome initially did not seek the position, but “forensics has been a great experience,” he says. “I don’t regret it at all.”
His love and dedication can be seen through countless hours spent helping students, taking them from meet to meet, and even providing them snacks.
“The team is successful because the students make it successful,” he said.
But success is a two-way street, and team members agree they would not be where they are without his help.
Forensics brings together students from different backgrounds, classes, and identities.
Most find a home away from home and are sad to see it go during their final season.
Forensics leaves a permanent impression that helps students later in life.
Former member Sadie Lange says forensics made her “a lot more confident” and developed her ability to speak publicly.
Alyera Koehn, a fourth-year forensics member, agrees but has a different outlook.
“Just because you had one bad round doesn’t mean you’re bad,” she says.
A spot can be found for anyone regardless of what he or she might wish to perform.
Reading aloud everything from heartwarming poetry to gut-wrenching memorized monologues, students hope to leave judges star struck.
While support for forensics is not as high as it once was, there is no doubt that, if the community puts its mind to it, students will get recognition they deserve.
The forensics team is back in business and ready to face the season head on.
Forensics typically is not a spectator sport, but community members are encouraged to come along for the ride.
The team’s first meet will be Saturday at Herington High School. Results will be posted on the school district’s social media accounts.