On March 1, Summit’s Mock Trial teams competed in regionals against Bend High and Cascades Academy.

Though neither the silver or green team won regionals, hope isn’t completely lost. Since there’s a possibility of a wildcard being applied, Summit’s green team still has a chance of continuing to state which takes place in Portland on March 15 and 16. A wildcard is used if the winning team is unable to make it to the state competition in which case the runner-up team is sent in their place.

“The Cascades Academy coach reached out already and said she’s not sure her team will be able to go because of two different conflicts,” said Mary Thomas, Summit Mock Trial coach.

Despite the loss, however, Summit’s teams still provided a strong effort and learned from their experiences, garnering the pride of Thomas and their teammates.

“I thought our team did the best that we could,” said Molly Fleck, one of the green team’s captains and Summit senior. “I was really proud of everyone, I think everyone worked really hard.”

Mock trial is an immersive opportunity for students hoping to go into law, giving them a chance to explore a pathway in high school that’s otherwise difficult to do so. Not only that, but it gives any student valuable experience in team building and public speaking skills.

“It’s given me a lot of confidence,” Fleck said. “It’s just a really good supportive environment, it’s a good team.”