PCHS Bulletin - Vimian Thach
Date Published – February 12, 2026
Students at PCHS had a wonderful performance at the American Legion Oratorical contest on January 11. Junior Kyle Ni took first place and will advance to the next round of competition on February 14 at the American Legion Post 24 in Downtown Bradenton.
Additionally two students from the Speech and Debate club participated. Senior Vimian Thach took second, and Junior Emerson Hunter took third.
Ni is a member of JROTC who was recruited to participate in the competition. He said he is looking forward to the next competition and placing first was a “solid accomplishment.” He also said that he prepared for the competition by “looking for a relevant topic that was also relatable and just continued to memorize.”
Speech and Debate club advisor Alison DePatie explained the competition. “These students worked extremely hard constructing and fully memorizing an 8–10-minute speech on the U.S. Constitution and studying multiple amendments so they could defend them without knowing in advance which ones they would be asked about,” she said. “Their preparation and dedication truly paid off.”
This competition was centered around the U.S Constitution, and the first event was to memorize an 8–10-minute speech. Here students are judged on their composure, delivery, and content in the speech. The contents should revolve around the US Constitution and include court cases or historical events to strengthen their point.
The second event is an impromptu speech. Contestants study four topics, not knowing which one the judge will select for them. Students present a 3–5-minute speech, showcasing their knowledge on the subject and forming an argument about why it matters.
Since the competition took place after winter break, students were expected to write their speech, memorize it, and study the topics during their break. This shows how dedicated these students were and how they used their time management skills well to be prepared for this event.
The competition would conclude to 3 places, with prizes of $300, $200, and $100 respectively.
“It was a good event, I'm proud of all the contestants and although I can’t compete again next year, I hope more people hop onto this amazing opportunity,” Thach says, “Our team is a bit small at the moment, so I hope next year our success brings in more people to join.”
Students interested The Speech and Debate team did extremely well, and they picked up their prize money and plaques on Feb 5. The team only strives for success and hopes for the next school year for an even greater chapter!