TOPEKA – Washburn University represented two of 18 teams, who competed in the Hurricane Invitational Mock Trial tournament at the University of Miami Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.

The mock trial varsity team placed fourth with a 5-3 record. The varsity team was compromised of Jane Billinger, Ellinwoood; Heather Gelsinger, Topeka; Josh Maples, Lindsborg; Michelle Neis, Tecumseh; Amber Rivera, Colwich; Jenna Seematter, Marysville; and Eli Woody, Topeka. Neis, captain of the varsity team, also received an individual award for Outstanding Attorney.

The mock trial junior varsity team, competing in their second tournament to date, had a 3-2-1 record. The junior varsity team was compromised of Nick Campbell, Newton; Brooke Graves, Ellis; Marci Hartwig, Yates Center; Brittany James, Topeka; Amy Molina, Arlington, Texas; and Anthony Velasquez, Salina. Campbell also received an individual award for Outstanding Attorney.

Washburn mock trial team’s next competition will be at the University of Kansas.

The undergraduate mock trial program consists of member schools throughout the country being assigned a case in September. Teams of six to eight students will work on this case, developing theories for both plaintiff and defense and prepare to try the case at the various competitions throughout the fall and spring semesters.

For more information contact Jim Schnoebelen, mock trial coordinator and lecturer, communication, at (785) 670-1426.

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