Marlow Speech Team Heads to State; Public Event April 17

The Marlow Outlaw Speech Team (MOST) is headed to the OSSAA State Speech Tournament, and they’re taking more than just talent with them—they’re carrying a legacy of dedication, unity, and passion.

After competing at the Southwest Regional Tournament on March 28–29 with 43 entries, MOST qualified an impressive 21 events for the State competition, which takes place Friday, April 11 and Saturday, April 12. The team, though smaller in size this year, is making a big impact.

"We have the smallest team we've ever had, but we are a happy team,” said longtime Marlow drama coach Paula McConnell. “Each team member supports each other. Our four senior captains have been a force of motivation since their freshman year, and that leadership really trickles down.”

Among those heading to State are members of the Advanced Drama and Drama 1 classes, including a determined freshman who made the cut—a feat that, McConnell says, takes “a lot of individual motivation.”

MOST’s qualifying entries span across a wide variety of speech and drama categories, including humorous and dramatic duets, prose, poetry, original oratory, and program of oral interpretation. One senior, Conner Murrah, made history by qualifying in all five possible events—something made possible this year by the addition of two pilot categories.

But it’s not just about the accolades.

“You might think our goals are medals and sweepstakes, but they truly aren’t,” said McConnell. “I just want each student to enjoy that they made it to the top and have a happy time while they are there. Ten years from now, the medals and trophies will have tarnished, but the memories and stories will shine brightly forever.”

This year's squad is composed of students who show tremendous growth, particularly among sophomores and juniors stepping confidently into the competitive spotlight. “Speakers make the world more communicative, and actors make the world more colorful,” McConnell reflected. “You NEVER outgrow the use of speech communication.”

MOST will also host a Talent Showcase on Thursday, April 17 at 7:00 p.m. at the new Performing Arts Center, where the public is invited to experience the talent first-hand—free of charge. Featuring eight of the team’s top-ranking performances, the show will be framed around the theme “Hooray for Hollywood” and includes character emcees and a lively opening number.

“This is my final show with MOST after 43 years,” McConnell said. “Supporting the arts is so important in any community, especially a small town like Marlow. I hope we’ll have a big crowd of supporters. It’s free, so come on out for an hour and a half of entertainment.”

And perhaps, future speech stars will be in the audience, inspired by the incredible variety and energy showcased on stage.

Pictured Front Row (left to right): Trace Ribble, Jackson Witt, Michael Weston, Conner Murrah

Standing (left to right): Hayden Pereira, Caleb Slaughter, Bianca Pineda-Kinsey, Hayden Hice, Sully Dixon, Addison McClennen

Good luck to MOST at State—Marlow is proud to be represented by you!