The Mock Trial prosecution team competed in two matches on Feb. 29 at the Gordon D. Schaber Sacramento County Courthouse, defeating Laguna Creek in the quarterfinals but falling to Del Campo in the semifinals. Scores have not been announced.
By advancing to the semifinals, the Cavs secured a spot in the consolation match against Rio Americano on March 2 at 4:45 p.m. at the Robert T. Matsui U.S. Courthouse. A coin toss determined that Country Day’s defense team will compete. Del Campo will face Elk Grove in the final.
Coach Rick Lewkowitz said the Cavs were poised against Laguna Creek, battling many objections. He praised freshman attorney Grace Zhao for “consistently providing persuasive and winning responses on so many objections.” Lewkowitz added that seniors Anu Krishnan, a pretrial attorney, and Héloïse Schep, a witness, had strong performances in the quarterfinals.
In the semifinals, Lewkowitz noted that Del Campo capitalized on mistakes. He mentioned that seniors Charles Thomas, a witness, and Spencer Scott, an attorney, stood out against the Cougars.
Thomas attributed Del Campo’s victory to strong attorneys and witnesses.
“They threw some curveballs (that were) difficult to handle,” Thomas said.
Scott said he was happy with the team’s performance in the quarterfinals and semifinals and its progress this season.
“We did a mix of good things in both rounds,” Scott said. “Specifically, catching their witnesses on cross (examinations). And (both) our opening and closing statements were great.”
Thomas said he was proud of the team’s improvement.
“The last two rounds were some of our best throughout the entire season,” Thomas said.
Looking forward to the team’s consolation match, Lewkowitz said he hopes the team will maintain its poise, especially since Rio Americano is known for aggressive objections.
—By Ethan Monasa
