OHIO Mock Trial stings the competition at Yellowjacket Invitational

OHIO Mock Trial set a program record of seven awards at University of Rochester’s Yellowjacket Invitational from November 11-12. Ohio University’s Green team placed third overall with a record of 7-1 and six individual students received recognition for outstanding performances as both attorneys and witnesses.

Both teams notched several wins and split decisions over impressive programs.

In mock trial competitions, every trial is judged by two judges who record their scores on a ballot, and it takes both judges' ballots to win a trial.

Ohio University Green’s defense side had a split decision with tournament champion Miami University and a victory over Michigan State University. Their prosecution side took victories over both La Salle University and Northwood University. Ohio University White’s defense side had a victory over La Salle University, and the prosecution side had a split decision with Lehigh University.

Six students received awards for outstanding performance, with Zachary Donaldson and Patrick O’Leary being recognized as outstanding attorneys and Megan Taylor, Riley Sargent, Sydney Gross, and Damyria Collier being recognized as outstanding witnesses. O’Leary and Collier are both first year members of the team.

“The feeling of winning an award with so many of my teammates after such a long 

and hard fought weekend was surreal” said O’Leary.

Damyria Collier, a first year member of the team, agreed. “Winning an outstanding witness award was amazing! Hearing my name being called at closing ceremonies and my team going buck wild for me is a moment I will always cherish. Seeing the improvements in my performance and incorporating judge’s feedback made the nights of preparation worth it!”

“We have an incredibly talented team this year consisting of new and returning members,” said Larry Hayman, Esq., director of legal engagement and pre-law program, and head coach to the team.  “Their long hours of practice and dedication to developing their litigation skills are paying dividends and will help propel us into a competitive spring semester.” 

The team will now begin preparing for their spring invitational competitions and a regional tournament by readjusting roles, adapting to new case problem changes, and improving their legal arguments.

OHIO Mock Trial is affiliated with the Center for Law, Justice & Culture and is coached by Larry Hayman Esq., director of legal engagement and pre-law program, and Ashley Johnson, Esq., assistant mock trial coach.