The Wayne High School Mock Trial team traveled to Lincoln Dec. 11 for day one of the Nebraska State Mock Trial competition.
In the first trial of the day, Wayne competed against York and represented the defendant.
"The two teams went back forth throughout and had a great battle," said Coach Josh Johnson.
The second trial put Wayne against Perkins County and again represented the defense.
That night Wayne was able to attend the Mock Trial banquet to be recognized as the Region 6 winner.
Tuesday found Wayne matched up against Skutt Catholic. This time Wayne would represent the prosecution.
"The two teams were extremely well prepared and put together one of the best matches of the year," Johnson said.
They continued back and forth during examinations and cross examinations.
"The two teams finished closing remarks and had only one thing left to do - go to the final meeting to find out overall finishing position," Johnson said.
During the presentation of awards, Wayne awaited their fate. Schools continued to be called and then it was revealed that Wayne's effort over the two days earned them a third place finish. The third place finish at the Nebraska State Mock Trial meet is the best in school history.
Josie Ley also competed in the Nebraska State Mock Trial News Reporter competition.
Josie's duties included watching the first trial and taking all the notes she could on the trial. She would have to go on and then write a 500-600 word article about the trial. Rules of the competition included:
Length of news story (500-600 words)
Headline (Included in word count)
Format (PDF to be submitted)
Focus on accuracy, completeness, balance.
Take care with spelling, punctuation, grammar.
Use correct titles and correct spelling of names. (Handout of case information/exhibits)
After writing the article, it was submitted and judged. At the Mock Trial banquet Josie was recognized for earning honorable mention for your hard work.
"I am so proud of how hard they worked all year. This group has an unbelievable work ethic and battled and worked on things all the way to the end!!! I have to give a huge thanks to my Volunteer Coach Sandy Brown. She worked so many long hours with these kids at practice and on her own. Her energy, and cookies, kept these kids excited all year long. This would not have been possible without her help and dedication to the program. Thanks a ton Sandy!" Johnson said.
The team also gave "a huge shout out to State Nebraska Bank & Trust for meals and State signs. Your kindness and generosity is greatly appreciated. We also need to thank the Honorable Bob Ensz for helping us down the stretch. Your years of judging and mock trial guidance is always appreciated. Thanks again to all and we look forward to doing it all again next year."
