Mock Trial’s Season Comes to an End at State
April 2, 2023
The Saint Joseph Mock Trial Team went to the 2023 state competition in Indianapolis on March 10 and 11, and placed 7th overall. The team went against John Adams, Hamilton Southeastern, Signature, and Heritage Christian, winning three out of the four trials.
The defense started the trials at 9:00 A.M. against John Adams. The defense attorneys were comprised of Emma Betz, Luke Matthys, and Sean McDonald. The defendant Sam Barrett was portrayed by Olivia Oriens. Prop director Taylor Rudzinksi was portrayed by Xinlin Wang. Ballistics expert Danny Nakashima was portrayed by Charlotte Kaufhold.
The defense held strong against Adams, a school known for its mock trial experience, and ended up winning the trial. Sean McDonald won outstanding attorney, and Charlotte Kaufhold won outstanding witness.
The second trial was done by the prosecution team against Hamilton Southeastern. The prosecution attorneys were comprised of Declan Gallager, Megan Hix, and Angela Pham. Actor Toni Gonzales was portrayed by Anna Pruitt. Detective Peyton Haskins was portrayed by David Polaniecki. Director Madison Fields was portrayed by Charles Grewe.
The prosecution went against the much more experience HSE, which ended in the only loss for the team. The team did put in a valiant effort however, only merely not meeting their verdict.
The third trial was done by the prosecution. The team played Signature School, and did much better against them. The team won the trial, by a wide margin. Anna Pruitt won outstanding witness.
After the third trial ended, the team returned back to their hotel to prepare for the final trial the next day.
The fourth trial was done by the defense team, and it was their strongest showing yet. The team had no problem going against Heritage Christian, as the trial was won by a large margin. Emma Betz won outstanding attorney. Everyone gave their best showing, and it payed off.
The Saint Joseph mock trial team put out a great showing at state. Although the team will be losing a few seniors next year, the team is undoubtedly a strong contender.
