I take back anything I might have said about Shine being the worst tournament ever. Granite State was a million times worse.
It wasn't that I was expecting to break that much- it's my 8th tournament, and I've never broken before. But everyone kept telling me that I would break and so I wasn't sure what to think.
Needless to say, I was more than disappointed with my results. I didn't do very well in either of my prepared speeches, 1-5 in LD (although I deserved at least 2-4; I had some of the worst debate judges ever), and apologetic ballots weren't very helpful or encouraging. The only speech I did very well in was impromptu. I got a first, second, and some thirds and fourths. If Region 10 were smaller in that event, I probably would've broken. This tournament was really only good for practice and knowing that if I want to break in impromptu, I need to practice a little more.
Yay for after-tournament rant!! Anyhow, everyone was super nice, even if saying "I'm sorry you didn't break," really doesn't help; I really appreciate all the support I got from my friends.
One thing I regret which is actually my fault is that I didn't get to know people better like I had planned. Unlike at Shine, that old devil social anxiety krept up and I had to hide in a cubby with Black Veil Brides and Fall Out Boy.
My disappointment for myself in no way lessens my happiness for my friends. I'm so excited that Naomi got third in TP and Anna got fourth. Love you guys!!
