UA Mock Trial will host its annual Crimson Classic Invitational tournament Saturday and Sunday.
The organization will compete against 28 mock trial teams from various universities, all of which have been given the same documents detailing a hypothetical case provided by the American Mock Trial Association. Teams prepare opening statements, direct examinations, cross examinations and closing arguments to compete against each other in the simulated legal case while fulfilling the roles of witnesses and attorneys.
While this process is present in tournaments occurring at other schools, the Crimson Classic holds special significance to the UA team. Ella Brown, president of the UA Mock Trial organization, mentioned how the organization has grown in members, funding and reputation since it was formed.
“It was only within the past five years that we went to nationals for the first time,” Brown said. “I think it’s just a symbol of how far we’ve come from where we started.”
This is the ninth annual Crimson Classic, and the University has become known throughout the SEC for its unique tradition. Taryn Campbell, assistant tournament director, discussed how the UA Mock Trial team is known for having what they call the “Southern hospitality room,” a place that is open to competitors and provides them with various needs such as snacks and water. Campbell said they have gotten enormous feedback from the competitors regarding the pleasant convenience of the room.
However, it isn’t simply the Southern hospitality room alone that sets the UA tournament apart from those of other schools.
“It’s been ‘Hamilton’-themed, Taylor Swift-themed, and this year we’re doing ‘The Great Gatsby,’ so that’s a really fun part we’ve woven into our tournament,” said Katie Wang, vice president of administration and tournament director.
The theme is applied to individual team names and the awards that are given out, with this year’s awards being pocket watches to emulate the vintage feeling of “The Great Gatsby.”
While family and friends of the competitors are always welcome, Campbell mentioned that other students on campus are more than welcome to attend, although there is a certain etiquette that should be maintained by those in attendance, including standing when the judges enter and refraining from entering or exiting during a round.
Campbell said that after making it to nationals, the UA Mock Trial team has attracted high-level competitors.
“They want to see what we’re made of, and we’re here to show them,” Campbell said.
