Burton forensic season ends abruptly

NORTON — In high school, forensics is a speech competition. There are ten different categories that represent different types of readings. The students have the option of choosing a performance piece or writing their own.

Despite the small size (seven members this year), J.I. Burton saw three Raiders qualify to compete at state. Head coach Tracy Sharpe credits their accomplishments to being challenged from day one as team members must compete against strong competition in the district.

“We compete against some of the best in the state in our district,” head coach Tracy Sharpe said. “Eastside, Castlewood, Thomas Walker...you’re just going up against the best from the very beginning. It’s tough to even get through the first round. So to make it to the state competition? You feel like you’ve already accomplished everything.”

In order to beat the best in the state, it takes lots of practice and dedication. According to Sharpe, that is one thing her team has in abundance.

“They do a wonderful job and practiced so hard to get here,” Sharpe said. “They got to compete at regions and super regions. We just hate that they’ve cancelled our state competition.”

No one feels the hurt of losing this season more than the team’s only senior, Dasanye Smith. Smith was doing a dramatic interpretation from Ellen Foster by Kaye Gibbons.

“It is sad knowing that the season was cut short,” Smith said. “But knowing that I qualified for State is an accomplishment all on its own. I have had more fun than I could ever explain.”

Smith, 17, is also involved in choir and One Act at J.I. Burton. This fall, she will attend UVA Wise where she will major in Spanish and minor in education.

“Dasanye has so many talents,” Sharpe said of her senior. “She can sing and act. She’s just so talented and such a good kid. You just love being around her. She made the day special every time she came into practice.”

To her teammates, Smith leaves a message of making every moment count.

“If this situation has taught me anything, it’s that we need to enjoy the present. I would encourage you to live every day like it’s going to be your last,” Smith said.