Guam High School Mock Trial Team Shines in 2025 Championship

Ms. Ericka H. White, Teacher, Guam High School

Feb 24, 2025

Students Charlotte, Inina, Connor, Millie, Luis, Jaylyn, Orion, and Andrew prepare for their finals match at the Supreme Court of Guam January 22, 2025

GUAM – It was so close. A tie at the top. A decision that came down to a coin toss.

The Guam High School (GHS) Mock Trial Team has made remarkable strides since its inception in the 2023-2024 school year, overcoming numerous challenges and demonstrating exceptional dedication and skill. This year, the team reached the finals of the 2025 Guam Mock Trial Championship, showcasing their growth and resilience.

"GHS Mock Trial Team, representing the Defendant, lost to Okkodo High School, the Prosecution, by decision,” explained Head Attorney Coach Joseph Horton. “One judge favored GHS by six points, another picked Okkodo by one point, and the third judge scored each team an even 84 points. Okkodo won the tie breaker, a simple choice by the third judge that in case of a tie, the Prosecution would win. Despite not clinching the championship, our journey has been rewarding and enriching."

Coach Joseph Horton conducts a last-minute coaching session with the team before the trial at the Supreme Court of Guam January 22, 2025.

Teacher Sponsor Monica Parke shared the team has grown from four to eight members.

“This growth is a testament to the team's hard work, resilience, and passion for the legal field,” Parke said. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible Attorney Coaches, JAG officers, USN LCDR Joseph Horton, USN LT Matthew Burns, USAF Capt. Sharon Otasowie, Capt. Patrick Hoerle, and USN LT Justin Prelogar, for their unwavering guidance and mentorship."

Attorney Coach LT Burns said it was an honor to coach the team.

“The level of progress made from day one to the finals was extraordinary,” LT Burns said. “Learning the Rules of Evidence and how to command a courtroom are daunting tasks, but the team's effort and determination were inspiring."

Inina Tanaka gives the court her opening statements as the prosecuting attorney at the District Court of Guam January 15, 2025.

Students shared they learned many skills through the experience:

"Initially, I was nervous, but I made new friends, and my coaches taught me a lot more than just how to win a case. Mock trial taught me about analyzing text, forming an argument, and backing it up with evidence. By the end of the season, it felt like second nature to play my role as both an attorney and witness." – Inina Tanaka, GHS senior

Charlotte Hoffman works on the side of the state department to convict the defendant at the District Court of Guam January 15, 2025.

"Competing in high school mock trials has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity. My team and I made it to the finals, and this journey has taught us much. I am a better speaker, learner, team worker, and writer because of it." – Charlotte Hoffman, GHS senior

"Participating in the mock trial season was a wonderful experience. I never saw myself as a lawyer, but through mock trial, I have unlocked a passion for practicing law. Our team grew so much, and I am excited to continue my journey next year." – Luis Angulo, GHS junior

Connor Cox presents his case as the prosecution attorney at the District Court of Guam January 15, 2025.

"Growing up, I always wanted to be like the attorneys from TV shows. Thankfully, this year I had the opportunity to make that dream come true. I am so glad I joined mock trial and had awesome coaches and teammates." – Connor Cox, GHS sophomore

The GHS Mock Trial Team was invited to compete in April at the Asia Pacific Mock Trial Tournament in South Korea.