On Friday May 1 the Huntley High School nine students when down to Eastern Illinois University to participate in the 10th annual IHSA State Finals for journalism. The students competing included seniors Jess Clavero in yearbook layout and copy editing, and Claire Filpi in newspaper design and yearbook copywriting, juniors Devin Martin in broadcast news and Adam Reckamp in sports writing, sophomores Courtney Thomas in yearbook caption writing and headline writing, Maddy Moffett in editorial writing, and Mawa Iqbal news writing, and freshman Haylie Larson in advertising.
“It was totally surreal (when I won). I didn’t really expect much because it was my first time (competing),” said Moffett. “As an athlete, I am used to high intensity situations, but the whole time sitting though awards, I thought my heart was going to beat out of my chest. Definitely a feeling I won’t ever forget.”
Even though Moffett is not in the journalism program, she was still able to compete. She ended up finishing first. Other members that placed were Clavero third place in yearbook layout, Thomas third place in yearbook caption writing, Filpi third place in yearbook copy writing, and Reckamp fifth place in sports writing.
“I’ve never felt more proud of myself and of the other journalism kids,” said Clavero. “It’s one thing to compete with the best in the state, but knowing your work is up there with the top entries is a whole new level of honor!”
Going into the competition, the team had high expectations and were hoping for at least third place, so they could take home a trophy. Although they placed five people, their final score was 20 points, earning them fourth place, falling short of third place by four points.
Hinsdale South High School finished third with score of 24, Fremd High School finished second with a score of 25, and Evanston High School took first place with a score of 28.
For more information about the state tournament and to view the winning entries click on the link to go to the IHSA website.