For the first time in five years, neither of Lincoln’s mock trial teams were chosen to advance to State competition. The 20-member team competed in Regional competition March 4 at the Multnomah County Courthouse downtown. “The competition in Multnomah County was harder than ever before,” coach Rob Schlacter said. “Both teams were still extremely good, each winning two of the three rounds.”

The white and red teams took 6th and 9th place, respectively. Over three rounds, teams took on the roles of lawyers and witnesses to argue a case against each other (one school representing the plaintiff, the other, the defense). The case was about a group of skinheads, a white supremacist leader, and their organization; all three were charged with the wrongful death of a young man. Teams were judged on their presentation, knowledge of the materials, and overall mastery.

“At first it was hard trying to get into the character because that’s not me,” junior Erin Madison said of having to portray the white supremacist leader. “But it’s not you; you’re acting. The more believable you are, the better you look on stand.”

Despite not continuing to state, students are still glad to have been on the team. “The fact that we lost won’t change anything, junior Julie Becker said. “It was still one of the best experiences I’ve ever had at Lincoln.”