Although the Mock Trial season did not end the way many hoped, there were still many positives that can be built on for the next season. Entering the year, the team was largely inexperienced, and many questions concerning the members with roles still needed to be addressed. Only one attorney and a few witnesses were returning from the year before, so the majority of the slots needed to be filled in the few short months before the first competition. Junior Captains Joseph Marchese and Will Sanyour, both of whom are attorneys, led the team each week hoping to inch one step closer to a glorious state title. As can be expected, there were several growing pains as a result of a relatively young squad, but every team member came ready to work each week. This work ethic helped build a culture and standard that would motivate the team members to go above and beyond expectations. Oratory won four trials in pool play which earned them the first seed in the playoffs of the county tournament. In the semifinal trial, Oratory beat the Jewish Educational Center which allowed them to move on to the county final. In the final, Oratory faced a tough Kent Place Team: the best team Kent Place has produced in years. It was a close trial, and many thought Oratory was the clear winner. Surprisingly, the judges did not rule in favor of Oratory, so Oratory’s season ended a little earlier than expected. Despite losing in the county final, things are looking good for the future of the Mock Trial Team. Only three seniors are leaving, and most of the team is made up of experienced sophomores and juniors. Mr. Martin, Mr. Meehan, Alumnus Scott Turtur, Mr. Scirocco, and Alumnus Joey D’Angelo all helped by generously giving hours of their time to help instruct and guide the team. This past season may have been disappointing, but the Oratory Prep Mock Trial team has a very bright future.