Taking their passion for the judicial circuit beyond the upstairs 9000 courtroom, the mock trial team made their way to the state competition and claim their place as champions. The team made their way to the Orange County Courthouse in Orlando March 15-17 to showcase their skills and make their way to the top.
After winning first place at the county competition back in February, the team secured their spot at the state competition. In order to prepare and improve their performance, mock trial state attendees gathered three to four days each week to run through witness roles, practice evidence arguments and develop different aspects of their two case theories.
“Although our practices incorporated casual jokes and fun times, every practice consisted of nailing down every witness affidavit, making sure the case theory was incorporated, and knowing all possible objections and evidentiary battles,” junior Barak Huang said.
Once they arrived in Orlando, the team went through four rounds of initial competition. Given that they placed as one of two top teams, the mock trial team then made it to the fifth and final round.
The state convention served as the class of 2019’s last mock trial event of the year, and many grading seniors were happy to end on such a positive note.
Before the competition took place, senior Chase Freeman made a deal with his team that he would spray his hair pink if they came home as champions. Alongside the first place trophy, Freeman stands with his pink hair, showing that he did keep his word. (Photo/Barak Huang)
“Our entire team has worked so tremendously hard for this goal this year, and to remain undefeated in mock trial competitions this year has been so gratifying,” senior Emily Irigoyen said. “It shows us that the time and effort we spend diligently practicing day in and day out is all worth it.”
