The Mount Academy Says Don’t Underestimate This Small but Mighty Mock Trial Team
5.16.2023
The Mount Academy, located in the former Mount Saint Alphonsus seminary, built in 1907, looks like a cloistered community sitting high atop the banks of the Hudson River. The team’s size and remoteness can lead competitors to miscalculate the team’s strength. But team members say they use that as an advantage.
“Coming from such a small school we tend to be underestimated,” says junior Kayley Huleatt. “What they don’t know is that we look beyond our school to our community, as well as being really close knit here at school.”
“There are only 12 on the team and we have to be prepared for just about anything,” says Camila Gonzales. “We know both sides of the case and we know everyone’s strengths and weaknesses. “
The Ulster County team beat out neighboring teams from Westchester to win the Region I Mock Trial Championship and are moving on to the statewide competition in Albany this month. Team members say working on mock trial in addition to their schoolwork and sports is teaching them time management and mental toughness.
“I’ve learned a lot just taking criticism from other people and applying it; mock trial helps me develop a thick skin,” says Yeoho Jeong. Jacqueline Maentel agrees, saying her competitive spirit on the volleyball court helps her in mock trial.
Stephen Mason is one of three seniors on the team who is grateful to compete back in person this year after two years competing virtually. “This is our first year in person and it’s been great finding our footing there and it has honestly been quite a bit of fun,” he says. “We don’t take it for granted that we got this far. We’re hopeful that we win States but just getting to this point is a huge win in itself.”
