This year Priory’s Mock Trial team soared to new heights, overcoming various types of adversity, including a late case packet release and Varsity team coaching change about a week prior to our first trial. This year’s case was about the termination of a star talent agent, Justice Miller, who reportedly attacked a member of the press, Rory Hayes, on live television, causing a concussion and detached retina at the premiere for the movie The Academy. Teams had to argue whether or not the termination was justified based on the contract that Justice Miller had with Jace Talent Agency, witness testimony, and more. 

The Mock Trial team graduated many of its long-time Varsity attorneys and witnesses last year. However, the team stepped up to the plate. After two winning both trials in the preliminary rounds, the team was off to in-person regionals where we went 1-1. The team swept Chaminade 3-0 ballots, but lost to Clayton who went to the state finals. However, this was enough to qualify for state competition. Then the Ravens took on Francis Howell North (FHN), the number one team coming out of regionals, and Visitation Academy. 

Last Friday night, April 25, the Ravens took a tough loss to FHN, coached by nationally recognized debate coach Randy Pierce. Then on Saturday morning, the team defeated Visitation Academy to finish the season. Unfortunately, our defeat to FHN meant the end of our season, but the team had a lot to be proud of. Coach Villa said, “It was a joy to work with and observe the mock trial teams learn and grow individually and as a team this mock trial season.” This was expanded on by co-captain and Varsity attorney, Greyson Antes who said, “We faced a lot of adversity from the jump with coaching changes and a lot of seniors leaving. But the team was able to have fun, bond, and perform very well.” Coach Willie finally added, “The season presented some significant challenges along the way, but the boys faced them with considerable fortitude. It was a true privilege to watch their commitment to developing as advocates and team members, and more broadly as young Catholic men. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve them, pray with and for them, and to learn from them, as well.”

If you are hesitant to join Mock Trial, listen to Coach Villa: “Key aspects of the mock trial experience include identifying and artfully presenting facts and evidence as advocates for your ‘client,’ determining how to best address disadvantageous facts, intense preparation for trial and thinking on your feet during the progression and uncertainties of a live trial. Mock Trial provides students considering a legal career with a solid, realistic experience but is also valuable for all students for training in logical thinking, presentation skills, advocacy, and identification of important versus irrelevant facts. I hope every student that participated learned a lot and had a great time doing so!”

On behalf of the Mock Trial team, I would like to thank our volunteer coaches: Mrs. Willie and Mrs. Villa, as well as our club moderator Dr. Erwin, for their time and effort helping us this season. Thank you to our parents for your continued support. Lastly, thank you to all the witnesses and attorneys who made up the Mock Trial team this season!