After rigorous training and dedication, the Wheaton Mock Trial team qualified for the National Championship Tournament at the Opening Round Championships on March 13.
Hosted by the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA), the National Championship Tournament consists of the top 48 of the approximately 600 teams in the country. Wheaton’s A Team is currently ranked 13 in the nation and stands among notable opponents including Princeton University, Duke University and the University of Chicago.
Wheaton placed sixth at the AMTA Opening Round Championship in Geneva, Ill. this month and earned a bid to the national tournament. Currently in its fifth year, this will be Wheaton’s fourth consecutive season qualifying for the national tournament.
When asked, Wheaton Mock Trial team members attributed their success to the sense of community and the attitude it fosters. Freshman team member Gabby Siefert said that the community is one where each teammate is criticized constructively but maintains the “freedom to think creatively.” Having an innovative mind is a key skill in mock trial, but it is the community of the Wheaton team that allows feedback to produce results.
Siefert said, “People you really respect and care about and love … are the ones giving you that feedback.”
Junior member Selby Mills also commented on the benefits of community. “Since we’re all very close on the team, it’s fun to work together,” she said.
The National Championship Tournament will be hosted by Furman University on April 15-17, 2016 in Greenville, S.C. To learn more about Wheaton Mock Trial, visit http://www.wheatonmocktrial.org for information regarding schedule and national rankings.