Junior orator Emma Blaum is this week’s Pirate Competitor of the Week sponsored by Galena Culver’s and the Galena Gazette. Emma’s two first place finishes in Radio Speaking and Oratorical Declamation helped clinch a second place finish for the GHS Speech team at Saturday’s meet in Stockton. “Emma is a natural public speaker,” said Coach Susan Bookless. “It has been really great to watch her transition from last season’s virtual speeches to in person competition. We will compete in two weeks at the IHSA Regional in Freeport. Emma is hitting her stride now, she could go far in the state series.”  Emma was honored with a gift basket from the Galena Culver’s, as well as a newspaper courtesy of the Galena Gazette.

Also Nominated:
Junior Hayes Noble had 9 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists in Tuesday’s victory over West Carroll. Coach Matt Wienen commented, “Hayes is one of those players that comes to practice every day and is prepared to give me and his teammates his best. He is an extremely hard-working young man. Hayes has always had an ability to shoot the basketball, he’s one of our team’s better shooters, but this year he has worked extremely hard on attacking the basket. I’m happy with Hayes’ play this season! He is a true team-first player and every team needs those kinds of players!”