Story by Brianna Steirer
Photo courtesy of Drake Mock Trial

Drake University’s Mock Trial team has established a tradition of excellence. The 2012-13 team, under the leadership of junior and President Ray Barr, is carrying on that tradition this year. After two second place victories in February, including one at regionals, the team will be continuing on to the Opening Round Championships (ORCs). A top six finish at ORCs would catapult the team to the big show — the National Championships in Washington, D.C. Drake is no stranger to the biggest stage in mock trial, making three appearances and nailing down two victories. The hopefulness for another return to the national championships is on Barr’s mind.

“(This season) is going very well, it is the most successful season we have had since I have been at Drake,” Barr said.

This success may be due to the hardworking individuals that make up the Drake Mock Trial Team.

The mock trial team works endlessly to maintain its reputation as one of the best in the nation. Practices usually consist of about nine hours a week, and weekends are often spent on the road, competing in cities all over the Midwest, such as St. Louis and Minneapolis.

Though the work is tough, first-year Brittany Fish cites the versatility of Mock Trial as one of the most enjoyable aspects about being involved with the group.

“My favorite part is getting to act as both a plaintiff attorney and a defense witness.  It allows me to really get a feel for the law and to become comfortable with arguing, public speaking and thinking on my feet under pressure,” Fish said.

In preparation for its upcoming competition in the ORCs, the team is working even harder to make sure it is ready for the best of the best.

“We start up again this week and will reassign any parts necessary so that we can have the strongest scoring team at ORCs,” Fish said.

The team’s focus is not only on the success of this season, however. Barr has his mind on even bigger goals for the future.

“My goals are two fold. First, lay the foundation for the next year. Second, to make sure everyone is learning and performing to the best of their abilities,” he said.

Upcoming dates for the mock trial team include the ORCs, on March 15-17, where the team will compete with 24 other Midwest teams, and the national championship on April 12-14.