Camp Success Stories

Well if we took it by the numbers, 5 people in the room I was in (poetry) advanced to the NSAA state tournament - having 3 medalists from that group (with a state champ and runner-up in the same class). The environment with the fellow speech kids along with the experienced, supportive coaching staff for the all the events felt very encouraging for learning and growth. In my room, it was the most fun seeing how others developed their program and being able to pick and choose the way for me to best develop my own performing style.

Esman Rodas, Northwest 2018

The first taste of speech I got was at the Greater Nebraska Forensics Association Speech Camp last year. At this camp, I learned what speech was truly like and I also learned about the various events that I could choose from. This camp shaped what my first season would be like. The camp helped me to conclude along with the guidance of my coach that I should do extemporaneous and informative for my events. While at the camp, I placed emphasis on learning the basics of extemporaneous, the camp helped me greatly and allowed me to grasp what I needed to do to structure an extemp speech. After the camp, I was able to use my new knowledge as well as knowledge from my coach and it made for a successful season. I went on to start competing at the Varsity level about half way through the season. I was placing in my events at meets far more than I would ever have anticipated. Eventually, districts came around and I qualified for state in both of my events, getting 2nd in informative and 3rd in extemp. I couldn't have asked for a better way to start of my high school speech career. I plan to attend the Greater Nebraska Forensics Association Speech Camp again, to ensure a continuous successful speech career.

Hayden Price, GICC 2018

The GNFA camp helped me break out of my shell and be confident in my abilities. Through the camp I was able to get my three points for my informative, which helped me place third at the state competition. This camp also helped me realize that I am a public speaker at heart and it is what I was destined to do. I also made some really awesome friends that believed in my abilities to help me succeed. It was an amazing experience that I recommend to everyone!

Trinity Young, Humphrey 2018

Ever since I went to the GNFA Speech Camp, I have become an even better competitor. This year, I received 3rd place in class C-1 Serious Prose. At GNFA, I selected my script and cut it. Getting that early start really helped me get an edge on my competitors by being prepared early on in the season. Also, I built my entire program at GNFA, competed in the competition there, and received 3rd place. Then in my season, I was extremely successful. My poetry medalled in all but one meet I competed at with the lowest placing being 8th. Learning from different coaches and competitors at the camp helped give me a different perspective on myself and how I approach speeches. I strongly recommend going, as you will most definitely benefit!

Maggie Maffin, Fillmore Central 2018

The GNFA Summer Speech Camp provided me with the opportunity to seek top-tier forensic instruction from some of the premier speech professionals from across the state. The knowledgeable staff tailored their curriculum to the needs of each individual student so that every participant could leave the camp with the specific lessons needed to help them succeed in the coming season. Personally, I was able to gain a new, fresh perspective about my event, allowing to me to continue to build throughout the season and reach a level of success which would have been impossible to attain without attending the GNFA Speech Camp. Furthermore, I had the chance to connect with elite competitors, coaches, and judges from across Nebraska and discuss with them different methods to grow further as a speech participant. Overall, the GNFA Summer Speech Camp catalyzed my success in high school forensics, and I would highly recommend it to other competitors who wish to gain an exclusive edge on the coming season.

Derek Voigt, Osceola 2018