The Defense team celebrated their second win against Arroyo Grande High School. Photo courtesy of Mock Trial adviser Ryan Mammarella.
San Luis Obispo High School’s Mock Trial team has a rich history, with multiple county championship wins since its initiation. While the team has not won a championship since 2022, this year’s competitions proved they are on track to reclaim the title.
“I thought the team performed phenomenally. Mock Trial is a subjective sport and trial could easily go either way depending on who the scoring attorneys are,” said new Mock Trial adviser Ryan Mammarella. “I was so impressed at how all the members of the team stepped up, got better and better, and showed how much effort, time, and focus they put into the season.”
The team met every Tuesday at lunch from October to February, holding additional meetings and practices outside of school hours to prepare for competitions. Together they worked on memorizing statements, practicing objections, and refining oral arguments.
“Everyone works together and helps each other no matter what side you are fighting for. Practices are so fun and competitions are even better with so many people supporting one other in the courthouse! Mr. Mammarella and all the attorney coaches are so amazing and help us learn and make the experience so fun,” said freshman Finlee Shih.
Each team member had their own responsibilities in the courtroom, with witnesses testifying on the case’s information and attorneys presenting a strong argument to the judges.
“I’m a defense attorney on the team. It basically entails creating direct and cross examinations for my witnesses. I like it because it gives me flexibility and the actuality of being an attorney and it’s just an overall great experience,” said sophomore Sophie Kuang.
The team competed in early February, finishing preliminary rounds as the only undefeated team in the county. SLOHS was the only school in the county to defeat this year’s winner, Templeton High School, in the preliminary rounds. Unfortunately, the team lost in the semi-finals to Morro Bay High School who won last year’s competitions.
Furthermore, junior Santiago Baltodano placed first in county for his efforts as a pretrial attorney during the season, and senior Chloe Elliot won first place in the county Courtroom Artist competition. Elliot will represent SLOHS as a Courtroom Artist at the state competitions this month.
Their early winning streak, as well as many honorable mention awards, have given the team confidence that they are on the path to victory.
“The team has the talent to do it, not only next year but in subsequent years as well. I’m excited to see how getting close this year will motivate team members next year,” said Mammarella.
The team may have lost this season, but that’s only made them more determined to win next year. With many seniors leaving, there are plenty of opportunities for interested students to try out with the team in the fall.
