MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University’s Mock Trial Team closed its 2025–26 season with a trip to regional competitions, marking another step forward for a program that continues to grow in size, skill and confidence.

Mock trial is a competitive academic program where students simulate real courtroom proceedings. Participants take on roles as attorneys and witnesses, preparing legal arguments, examining witnesses, and presenting cases before judges in a structured competition format.

While the team did not advance past regionals, the season reflected steady progress across the board.

“What stood out is the growth,” said team coach David Himmelreich, an adjunct professor in the Department of Political and Global Affairs. “We went from just a few students a couple of years ago to about 30 participating this season. For the first time, we were able to field two teams in competition.”

That growth translated into results.

Building on skills, growth

Throughout the season, MTSU competed in multiple invitational tournaments across the country. At the Owl Invitational in Atlanta, the A team posted a 5-3 record and earned an honorable mention. Several students earned individual honors at competitions in Georgia, Florida, Missouri and Tennessee.

Jessie Decker, a data science major from Nashville, won outstanding attorney and Henry Vance, a political science major from Murfreesboro, earned outstanding witness.

Even with a roster that included many first-time competitors, the team held its own against more experienced programs.

“Many of us had to learn courtroom procedure from scratch,” said Nicholas Perrone, a political science major from Spring Hill, who plans to attend law school this fall. “I’m proud of the work everyone put in, from learning objections to delivering opening and closing statements.”

The season concluded at the American Mock Trial Association regional tournament held in February at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where MTSU continued to compete at a high level.

Students say the experience builds confidence and practical skills.

“Mock trial helps you believe in yourself,” said Renee Tetteh, a political science major from Smyrna. “It builds your public speaking and critical thinking skills and pushes you to grow.”

The program also builds connections.

With practices twice a week and travel for competitions, students spend significant time working together. Many say those shared experiences lead to lasting friendships.

“I made some of my closest friends through mock trial,” Perrone said. “You’re learning, competing and solving problems together.”

Beyond competition, the team focuses on preparation and development. Members learn how to construct arguments, think on their feet, and perform under pressure. Those skills apply to careers in law, business, public service and beyond.

“Students learn by doing,” Himmelreich said. “They develop public speaking, teamwork, and the ability to present themselves professionally.”

Looking ahead, the team plans to build on this season’s momentum.

Leaders aim to start preparation earlier and raise performance levels sooner in the year. With continued growth in participation and experience, expectations are rising.

“We want to take what we learned and come back stronger,” Tetteh said.

For students considering joining, team members offer a simple message.

“Just do it,” Perrone said. “There’s no downside. You gain skills, confidence, and a community.”

With a larger roster and more experience in place, MTSU’s Mock Trial Team is positioned to take another step forward next season as it builds on a year of steady growth.

— Mike Davis (Michael.Davis2@mtsu.edu)