On Sept.  11, the RCHS Forensics team got back into their groove and started their long journey of rebranding. Forensics is originally a speech and debate based club that involves poetic and literary interpretations which are then performed to an audience in a competitive style. 

 In past years, the team has brought  home two state title wins.    However this year,  the team is looking for new ways to “rebrand” themselves to become an even bigger force. 

Coach Courtney Diette elaborates on the “rebranding” process. 

“I would like to “rebrand” this year as the RCHS Speech and Debate Team. I am bringing in a student from Washington and Lee University who was a Canadian national champion debater to help us start to develop a competitive debate team in addition to our already strong forensics group,” said Diette. 

One reason for this “rebrand” was to make it more obvious to the student population what the forensics team is all about. This club is often mistaken for a science based learning club, however, it is quite the contrary. 

Team member and freshman Roslyn Morrow talks about the importance of changing their name. 

“I believe forensics must be rebranded so people know what it is,” said Morrow, “When people hear forensics, they think of computers or forensic science, which is inaccurate. However, with the name changing to “speech and debate,” it’s ten times clearer what we do, and people will want to join with a better understanding of what it’s about.” 

Morrow explains why she likes the competitive activity. 

“I mainly enjoy forensics because it has helped my confidence,” said Morrow, “I think it is a great way to get out of your comfort zone, learn more about what kind of literature you enjoy, and get to know more people who share the same interests, especially at tournaments where you can get to know more people in the same category and why they also enjoy it.” 

Morrow goes on about what she would like students to know about the club. 

“Something people should know about forensics is that if you’re nervous about doing it because of presenting in front of others, then that should be your main reason for doing it. Public speaking is a vital life skill, and speech and debate is the perfect way to learn how to improve those skills while still having fun,” said Morrow. 

While this team has been through many changes in the past two years, with new coaches and expanding to include the middle school, the Forensics team wants everyone to know they are coming back this year, stronger than ever. As always, the team is looking for new members and supporters. If you find yourself bored, email courtney_diette@rockbridge.k12.va.us for more information or to stay updated on their first meet in late fall.