The Mock Trial team delivered a polished performance this past weekend, capturing the 2026 Judge Richard N. Ware IV Memorial State High School Mock Trial Competition and earning the opportunity to represent Louisiana on the national stage.

The championship run came just two weeks after the Jays competed at the regional tournament held at the 24th Judicial District Court in Gretna. There, three teams represented the Blue Jays in a competitive field. The all-senior team of attorneys Ben Farmer, Christopher Juge, and Derek Moore directed the courtroom strategy, while witnesses Grant Carroll, Everett Kramer, Paul Sparacello, and Isaac Uhlich delivered detailed and persuasive testimony. The team advanced to the final round before falling in a closely contested trial to Haynes Academy. As regional runner-up, the team secured its place in the state tournament.

Two additional teams of Blue Jay attorneys—junior Evan Morgan; sophomores Mike Graugnard, Charles Juge, Jackson Lane, and Vico Vignes; and freshmen Parker Lilly and Liam Moore—and witnesses pre-freshman Miles Bradley; sophomore Matthew Brandner; juniors Logan Clark and Benjamin Keller; and seniors Brady Gilbert, Bryce Johns, and William Stackpole also competed admirably. Individually, Charles Juge tied for Best Attorney, while Uhlich earned Best Witness honors for the second consecutive year.

Building on that momentum, the Mock Trial team showcased poise, preparation, and precision at the state competition, held at the United States District Court in Shreveport. The Jays opened with a decisive victory over Carencro before avenging their regional loss with a strong performance against Haynes Academy. In the championship round, the Blue Jays faced defending state champion Caddo Magnet. Demonstrating disciplined legal strategy and compelling courtroom presentation, the team secured the state title.

Mock Trial competitions demand months of preparation as students master case materials, craft legal arguments, and refine direct and cross-examination techniques. The program is moderated by Greg Ernst ’83 and guided by lead coach Brett Wise ’82, whose leadership—alongside a team of alumni coaches—has long been instrumental in the Mock Trial program’s success.

With the state title secured, the Jays now turn their focus to the National High School Mock Trial Tournament, set for May in Des Moines, Iowa.