Sachia Tasz: The First-Ever 'College Idol' Winner

For months now, Sault College has been looking for an "idol". Last night, they found one.

For the past two and a half months, The Outback at Sault College, in association with the Student Administrative Council, has been hosting their first-ever "Outback Idol", a performance competition based on the popular Idol television series. The event was held on The Outback Pub main stage.

Sault College Students have been in a showdown, strutting their stuff for a $500 first prize and a chance to compete at the Ontario College Idol.

After seven installments of the Idol, two final contestants, Tim Ronin and Sachia Tasz, took the stage for the final performance. When the night ended, the winner of $500 and bragging rights was Sachia Tasz.

Ronin, who regularly performed in Outback Idol with his acoustic guitar, was given an unexpected second prize. Shortly after the event, he was offered a gig opportunity by the owner of a local lounge who was listening in the crowd.

The judging for Outback Idol was provided by three local "celebrity" judges who were selected by the Idol organizers. George Ravlich (popular local bass player and owner of Crank Sound Distribution), Jamie Case (singer songwriter) and Chris Belsito (yep, that's me again) donated their time to participate in the competition. Judges scored contestants after each performance using categories including vocal pitch, microphone control, song selection, and delivery. One contestant was eliminated per evening of Outback Idol.

Organizers of the event say that the success of "Outback Idol" ensures that it will be returning to Sault College next semester with a new group of industry judges.

Congratulations to Sachia Tasz!

(Pictured above l to r: Jamie Case, Chris Belsito, College Idol winner Sachia Tasz, and George Ravlich)