A Model for State Divisions of the Asta National Solo Competition

Abstract

My first experience as chair of the Texas division of the ASTA National Solo Competition came late in the summer of 2006 when the former chair accepted another teaching position outside of the state. Taking over at the last minute forced me to organize hurriedly, and I was most thankful for the assistance given me by the outgoing chair, the state president, and the board. After the competition was over, our board suggested that I consider organizing our policies and procedures into a state competition guideline handbook so future competition chairs would not have to “reinvent the wheel.” This article will address the processes, concerns, and the options available in organizing and bringing to fruition this important and prestigious event and provide guidelines for creating competition handbooks that are appropriate to each state.

State competition chairs for ASTA's National Solo Competition are met with expected and often surprising challenges, and may feel that they are “flying by the seat of their pants” when dealing with myriad issues that arise when organizing their state events. While each state has issues that make them unique, planning well in advance of the event makes for a smoother and less stressful competition for the chair, the state board, adjudicators, and the competitors.