Eastside Forensics claim Super Region 1CD title

March 12, 2020
First place winner are left to right, top row: Malik Jallow, Hadassah White, Sarah Burke. Bottom row: Cloey Bailey, Caitlyn Shepherd, Gabby Brooks First place winner are left to right, top row: Malik Jallow, Hadassah White, Sarah Burke. Bottom row: Cloey Bailey, Caitlyn Shepherd, Gabby Brooks

Eastside High School Forensics students are no strangers to competition. The judge’s critiques, the nuance of interpretation, the skillful performance and the importance of teamwork are all things these students understand. With a history of success, the two-time defending VHSL State Champions continued their drive for a three-peat on Saturday, March 7 at Bland County High School.   

Through three straight grueling rounds of competition, the Spartans proved why they are a strong contender for the state title again in 2020. With consistency, commitment and dynamic performances, the Spartans pulled out another victory, claiming the Super Region 1 CD title.

Several competitors placed first in their categories. Cloey Bailey (Poetry), Gabby Brooks and Caitlyn Shepherd (Humorous Duo), Sarah Burke (Humorous Interpretation), and Malik Jallow and Hadassah White (Serious Duo) were all ranked first in their respective categories. Eastside also had outstanding performances from Olivia Adkins (Prose - 2nd place), Cassidy Funk and Dalton Lawson (Humorous Duo - 2nd place), Madison Kiser and Ariel Stanley (Serious Duo - 4th place), Katie Levy (Poetry - 5th place) and Jesus Antonio Rea (Serious Interpretation - 4th place).

After the competition, Coach Shane Burke spoke to his team. “I am so proud of you all and you should be incredibly proud of yourselves as well. I celebrate your accomplishments regardless of what the score sheets said. Each of you are beautiful, amazing people and I count it a blessing to be able to surround myself with your passion and creativity.”

Assistant Coach Heather Marchant echoed his sentiments. “You guys really brought your A-game today and gave it your all. Hard work and determination yield much greater prizes than a first place medal. They bring growth. Each of you have grown since we started this journey, and I can’t wait to keep working with you guys.”

With the win, the team advances to the state dFinals on March 28 in Midlothian. Provided by Brandon White