Northwood University’s Mock Trial team earned a Top 5 finish in its division at the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) National Championship Tournament, which took place April 4–6 at the Ohio Justice Center in Cleveland, Ohio. In addition to the team’s outstanding performance, three Northwood students earned All-American Awards.
Following a competitive season of regional and Opening Round Championship Tournaments, Northwood was one of just 50 teams invited to compete at the AMTA’s 40th National Championship Tournament. These top teams were divided into two equal divisions. Northwood’s impressive showing included winning their trials against very prepared teams of students from Duke University, the University of Toronto, and Harvard University. NU Mock Trial split their ballots with a very strong Iowa team, meaning Northwood won a ballot and tied on another, while Iowa won the remaining two ballots.
“We are exceptionally proud of our students’ performance at the National Championship Tournament,” said Northwood Mock Trial Coach Dr. DeLois Leapheart. “To be recognized among the top programs in the country is a testament to our students’ dedication, resilience, and professionalism.”
Three Northwood students earned All-American honors — an accolade that can only be achieved at the National Championship Tournament. Gabriel Cerda of Westland, Michigan, and Conrad Waldie of Vassar, Michigan, were awarded All-American Witness distinctions. Barrett Tefft of Davison, Michigan, earned an All-American Attorney Award.
“To have three students earn All-American honors at the national level is extraordinary,” Dr. Leapheart said. “These accolades reflect not only individual excellence but the strength of the teamwork throughout our program.”
In preparation for the National Championship Tournament, students had just 19 days to analyze and prepare a new case after qualifying through the opening round championship series in March. According to Dr. Leapheart, that limited time did not hinder the team’s determination.
“Our students demonstrated remarkable discipline and focus, devoting their spring break to intensive preparation,” said Dr. Leapheart. “Their commitment paid great dividends.”
The students attending this tournament from Northwood University included:
- Excellent Abikphi, Midland
- Evan Baker, Grandville
- Jaleigh Beckert, Westerville, Ohio
- Gabriel Cerda, Westland
- Maze Guza, Ubly
- Aaron Harvey, Saginaw
- Riley Hayer, Clare
- Hayden Kutchinski, Freeland
- Gabriel Laske, Hope
- Julian Lee, Macomb
- Parker Maples, Howell
- Johnathan Schwegler, Grand Blanc
- Laina Tomei, Shelby Township
- Barrett Tefft, Davison
- Evelyn Wells, Troy
- Winston Wilcox, Camden
- Conrad Waldie, Vassar
Dr. Leapheart extended her gratitude to Northwood’s community of support.
“We deeply appreciate all the alumni, donors, faculty, administrators, staff, attorneys and others who supported our students’ growth along this rigorous journey,” she added. “A special thanks to our Assistant Coaches Stephen Dunn and Jake Walters for all they did to contribute to our students’ success!”
Since 2000, the AMTA has recognized the team that best exemplifies its ideals—civility, justice, and fair play. After three rounds of competition, each team rates each of the teams they have faced on the Spirit of AMTA ballot. Loyola was this year’s winner in Northwood’s division, and Northwood was the runner-up.
For more information about Northwood University’s Mock Trial program, visit www.northwood.edu/student-life/organizations/mock-trial.
