Most people would argue that a body can’t function without its spine. But what happens when the backbone of a team is suddenly gone? That’s exactly the challenge the Park High speech, drama, and debate team faced when longtime coach Keaton Ramm resigned from both her role as head coach and Spanish teacher over the summer of 2024.
On top of the loss of leadership, the team found itself grappling with a significant drop in membership with only 6 students participating, nearly cut in half from the previous year. For many, the prospect of competing without a coach—or even a full team—seemed daunting. Yet, in a show of commitment and quick thinking, JD Wagner and Vicki Denniston stepped in to co-coach just before the start of the season.
While team members were relieved to still have the opportunity to compete, senior Matthew Melin said, “I knew it was going to be different without her.” Despite the challenges, the team is forging ahead, determined to make the most of a season unlike any other.
“They’re trying to do more team-centered practices, but Ms. Ramm just brought a certain energy to the team that can’t really be replaced.” said Melin.
However, most of the seasoned members, such as Melin, feel they may not need as much guidance from the coaches this season. “I think it’s less about the coaches and a lot more about how you perform as an individual,” said Melin.
At the first meet in Big Timber on November 9, Melin placed first in humorous oral interpretation, proving that experience and self-reliance can still lead to success. And while the team as a whole felt a little underprepared, Melin wasn’t the only one to shine at the competition. Freshman Riley Denniston impressed by placing third in dramatic oral interpretation, while sophomore Mars Waldron earned third place in original oratory. These strong performances highlighted the resilience and talent of the team, even without the stability of a longtime coach.
Despite all the challenges they have faced prior to the start of the season, the Park High values of grit and hard work are definitely shining through these determined students. Although the absence of a familiar coach has created a shift in team dynamics, members like Melin have proven that the individual talent and resilience of the team can still shine through. With strong performances from both seasoned competitors and newcomers the team has demonstrated that, while leadership is important, the spirit and determination of its members can carry them forward through even the biggest competitions such as regionals and state in January.