Rock Ridge Speech takes first place in Zimmerman

The Rock Ridge Speech Team opened the 2026 season with a first-place finish at the Thunder Throwdown in Zimmerman, Minnesota.

Wolverine speakers averaged more than 22 points, defeating Chisago Lakes (21) and Rogers High School (18). Princeton, North Branch, Sartell-St. Stephen, St. Francis and Zimmerman also competed in the 7AA meet.

“I’m so proud because it shows the dedication and hard work they have put in during past seasons, and the high level of competition that sets the tone for the new season,” said Rock Ridge Head Coach Leah Ryan.

They had first place finishes from Jase Matuszak (humorous), Anna Fierst (original oratory), Apres Surla (storytelling) and Ava Sherek (creative).

Georgia Duffy finished second in great speeches and Matuszak was second in drama, with Sophie Volkey taking third in drama. Emma Peltier was fifth in storytelling and Ella Scherf was sixth in extemporaneous reading. Also competing were Khepra Hainey and Shaylene Pike.

Ryan is the new head coach this season, along with Amber Schwartz as assistant coach and Jerry Burnes as volunteer coach.

“We have three seniors on the team — Duffy, Mastuszak and Surla — and they’ve started the bittersweetness of their last high school season,” Ryan said. “All three are at the top of their game and ready to rock for Rock Ridge.”

Rock Ridge will travel to St. Francis next weekend, on Saturday, Jan. 17. Section competitions for the team are April 11 and state is April 24.