After a series of four fantastic trials Friday through to Sunday, our varsity Mock Trial finished in an impressive third place at state once again.

The boys did well, defeating Kirkwood, Nerinx, and Lutheran South. The way the cards fell, they were drawn against Kirkwood again, this time for the Defense, in the semifinals. The team split the ballot with them, 2-1, and were told there was only one vote in one of the juror ballots.

Priory was the last, smaller and private school left in the top four, against Kirkwood, Clayton, and the repeat champions Maplewood Richmond Heights. This season featured several highlights, including a record four teams competing, Coach Niemann winning Attorney Coach of the Year, and a proven consistency of the strength of the program, with Priory now firmly established at the top tier of the competition in State.

This year, at the end of the final trial, emotions were palpable as we bid farewell to Chuck Taylor ‘26, Cam Wong ‘26, Gavin Gittemeier ‘26, Christian Bolin ‘26, and Jack Mantovani ‘26. These guys have been stalwarts of the program, contributing to its success and helping us rebuild following Covid.

We have a very strong pipeline of talent coming through, with JJ Medler ‘27, Jonathon Sadasivam ‘27, Austin Kovac ‘27, Charlie Edwards ‘28, Andrew Dysart ‘28, Nathan Singer ‘28, and Luke Lavery ‘28, among others, all ones to watch for next season.

A huge thank you to Fr. Benedict, Coach Tom Niemann, Chris Dysart, Laura Villa, Jeff Medler, and Tabitha Bono for their phenomenal work and tireless self-giving. Thank you also to Headmaster Dr. Scott Welz and all those who attended throughout to support the team, and thanks to the parents, College Counseling, and custodians for accommodating us so many times throughout the year.

Ultimately, a huge congratulations and thanks to the boys themselves for doing Priory proud!