The DECA State competition just wrapped up and GHS brought home multiple medalists and qualifiers for Nationals. The competition was held in Madison where students across the state showcased their talent in business events.
Senior David Acamovic, who qualified in School Based Enterprise, said qualifying was a relief after preparing for months and practicing his presentation.
“I was stressed pretty much the whole time leading up to it, when they called my name, I just kinda sat there for a second before it hit me,” Acamovic said.
Senior Leo Gamboa, who will be representing the Panthers Den at Nationals, said the competition itself was pretty intense.
“There’s so many schools there and everyone looks like they know what they’re doing. You just have to block it out and focus on your own event, which is hard to do with all the waiting around,” Gamboa said.
Senior Jack Grunske, who qualified in Sports & Entertainment Marketing, pointed to the preparation as the key to advancing.
“We’ve been practicing role plays and going over material for months, Mr. Galante pushed us hard, and it showed,” Grunske said. “It feels good knowing the work actually meant something.”
DECA advisor Jared Galante said the team’s success went beyond just the qualifiers. He noted that Zayd Cartagena, Casey Lamb, and Noah Thompson all received medals for individual performances. The school store also earned Gold Level Certification, and Casey Lamb received a Senior Recognition from WI DECA to represent the state at the “ICDC Inspire” event at Nationals.
“You never really know what to expect at any level of DECA competitions,” Galante said.
“All of our students excelled at Districts with strong scores and we were happy to have seven make it to State.”
With Nationals in place April 25-28, the qualifiers have more work ahead. But for now, they’re taking a moment to celebrate a job well done.
