RCS Students Excel at 2024 NSDA National Speech and Debate Championship

Des Moines, Iowa – June 24, 2024 – RCS is proud to announce the outstanding achievements of our students at the 2024 National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) National Championship held in Des Moines, Iowa. The tournament, which commenced in March with regional and state qualifying events, culminated in an intense week-long competition featuring top students from around the nation.

Ellyott Siffring, a standout competitor, qualified in multiple events but chose to focus on International Extemporaneous Speaking (Extemp) as her main event and Impromptu Speaking as her supplemental event. Impromptu Speaking is a highly challenging event where competitors are given three random prompts upon taking the stage. They then select one prompt and have only seven minutes to prepare and deliver a cohesive, well-structured speech. The speech typically includes an introduction, three main points, and a conclusion, all supported by relevant real-life examples.

This year’s Impromptu Speaking category featured nearly 600 participants. Competitors began the elimination rounds on Wednesday, with the final six competing on the main stage on Friday at 10 a.m. Colorado time. Ellyott Siffring’s exceptional performance in the final round secured her the position of second overall in the nation, making her the runner-up in this prestigious event.

“We are incredibly proud of Ellyott’s remarkable achievement,” said [Coach/Principal’s Name], [Coach/Principal’s Title] of RCS. “Her dedication, quick thinking, and eloquence have truly set her apart on the national stage.”

RCS congratulates all our participants for their hard work and dedication throughout the tournament. Their achievements are a testament to the strength and quality of our speech and debate program.