For the first time in eight years, the Mock Trial club led by seniors Owen Carso, Brooke Natter, Michael Elaro, Abby Chudoba and Chris Flemming took first place at the Monroe County Bar Association Invitational Mock Trial Competition.
Following the win, the team was awarded with a first place trophy, a traveling trophy and a $500 prize. Carso was also named as the best attorney for the afternoon session.
The competition took place on Nov. 23 with about 15 other schools, mostly from Monroe County. At the competition, DV had an A and B team that faced four trials each, two on the plaintiff side and two on the defense side.
“We want to try and win it, so we set one team up to win trophies and the other team to get experience,” adviser Mr. Tom Bailer said.
While the A team was victorious, Mr. Bailer credits the B team for aiding in that success.
“We needed them every day in practice because they were pushing the A team to be better,” Mr. Bailer said. “This win was a team win for everyone.”
While reflecting on this year’s team, Mr. Bailer talked about the strength and work ethic they had.
“The lawyers were super prepared, and the witnesses were probably the best witnesses we’ve ever had,” Mr. Bailer said.
In order to prepare for the competition, the club has had one meeting per week since the first week of school. However, the week before the competition, members stay after school until 6 p.m. everyday.
This year though, the Thursday and Friday before the competition the club faced weather challenges and were not able to meet. Mr. Bailer says he is appreciative of the individuals who came to the school that Saturday, despite still not having power.
Following this competition, the club will compete in the two-day state tournament in February.
