After a thrilling set of matches, Oratory Prep sits with a 4-0 record in the Mock Trial competition. This is not the result of comfortable leisure time, but the result of hours, days, weeks, and months of constant preparation and labor from the team. All team members contributed their own form of hard work and effort and we finally see it come to fruition!
Much like last year’s post, advancing through the competition requires the team to win one of two rounds for a chance to progress to the quarterfinals. Winning both, however, will guarantee you make it.
The first trial was a bundle of nerves for everyone involved. Lots of stress, pressure, and nerves were pretty evident from lots of the team members. However, experienced competitors such as Aryan Sabnekar and Sam Nnadi seemed very calm, reassuring everyone that we would be alright. So much hard work depended on this very moment, so it was obvious why everyone was so stressed out. However, we all took on our best poker face and sat in the majestic courthouse. After about 3 hours, we went home with the win.
The second trial, although shorter, had less overall pressure. This time, the defense took on opposing counsel. This team was led by Sam (again–sorry Sam!) and Marco Buonaiuto. The team was less nervous at this point, seeing as we had been guaranteed access to the quarterfinals. Nevertheless, the defense gave it their all and secured the win.
The third trial was a lot closer and had the team pretty nervous seeing as we didn’t want to get knocked out so early after all the hard work we had put in. Nevertheless, we gave it our all and won. Aryan Sabnekar and Sam Naadi led the prosecution to victory yet again.
The fourth trial I sadly didn’t have the privilege of attending, but we were victorious there as well. The prosecution was up yet again in the Semi-Finals and the team was ecstatic about the win.
On 2/20, the team will go onto the county finals as the prosecution competes to win it all. The team couldn’t have made it to where we are without the insane amount of work we put in. We also couldn’t have made it here without Mr. Martin and his kindness he continues to show toward the team. The amount of time and energy Mr. Martin takes out of his schedule to help us is amazing and I speak on behalf of the team when I say we are truly grateful for everything he has done. I’d also like to thank Mr. Meehan, Mr. Doddy, Mr. Scirocco, and Mr. D’Angelo for all the work they put in as well. Mock Trial truly is a special experience and I urge you to check it out next year if you’re interested.
