The Hays High forensics team qualified for Kansas State High School Activities Association State Festival at Kansas Wesleyan University. It will be held via Zoom in the Hays High library on Saturday, May 1.

Sophomores Devlyn Jochum and Kaley Rajewski qualified in prose.

“This is my first time qualifying for state forensics, so I’m very excited to be participating,” Jochum said. “It’s a true shame that it will be through the virtual format, as nearly all of the actual competition experience is lost, but hopefully next year, we will be back to normal. I’m sure the competition will be very stiff, and I regret not getting to see my competitors in person so that I can learn from them. Still, it is gratifying to know that I could at least make state and virtually ‘brush shoulders’ with other kids who share my love of forensics.”

Like Jochum, Rajewski said she is excited to make it to state and interested in seeing how it will play out virtually.

“I am really glad that I made it to state; I honestly didn’t think it was going to happen,” Rajewski said. “I’m excited to see what it is like since it will be Zoom again, though I am kind of nervous about doing it.”

As they look back on the season, Jochum and Rajewski have come to enjoy the memories they have made in forensics.

“My favorite memory from this season would be the practices because we always have very random and funny and weird conversations during them,” Rajewski said.

Like Rajewski, Jochum said she also enjoyed the little moments in forensics.

“My favorite memory from the past season was competing in a synchronous (‘live’ via Zoom) event, because I got to spend a bit of time with Kaley while we waited to perform,” Jochum said.

Jochum and Rajewski will be competing against 29 other students and 22 schools.

“I’m very proud of all the kids, their hard work and ability to adapt this year,” coach Jennifer Rajewski said.

23rfairbank@usd489.com