Senior Highlight

Morgan High Speech and Debate team would like to highlight outgoing senior, BJ Hone. It’s been a wild ride for BJ and there were lots of moments of growth and learning in the beginning. During his Freshmen year tournaments were all online, due to COVID. Instead of meeting with other schools and getting to know other kids, the teammates sat in various different, empty hallways on their laptops, competing via Zoom. Many kids didn’t love that style of competition but BJ persevered, and then remained in Speech and Debate all four years of High School.  

Zoom tournaments were tough because BJ’s favorite part of competing is actually getting to know the other kids from the competing teams. There’s a camaraderie that happens in between rounds. “It’s an eye-opening experience learning about each other and what makes us different and how we are also the same,” said Hone. 

Although he competed in multiple events, Hone’s favorite event was called Impromptu.  Competitors are given a selection of three random topics, ideas or quotes. They choose one, and have two minutes to come up with a five minute speech about that topic.  “It’s my favorite because it taught me how to listen to my instincts and how to come up with something inspiring to say that people may need to hear.” Being the reigning and two-time Region Champion in this event, Hone definitely grew in the art of spontaneous public speaking. Along with his Impromptu success, BJ Hone partnered with Jaqsyn Rudd to compete at Nationals in a Drama influenced event called Duo, where they performed a 10-minute two man play.  

 “Debate definitely made me more mature. Every tournament showed me just how much the world needs to change, and how I can help change the world. One voice matters. Speech and Debate gave me a platform where my ideas could be shared and heard.”

“Our team is really going to miss BJ! He has a light and an energy that brightens our team,” said assistant Coach Lisa Hone. “I have seen him grow in so many ways.  He is more confident. He shares his ideas in logical, respectful ways. He will continue to help and lift others throughout his life.”

The Morgan Team’s competition year might be wrapping up but they are already preparing for next year.  If any 7th-11th graders are looking to join the team next year, contact the High School for more information.  λ