Maze Gusa recognized as 100 teams compete in American Mock Trial Association summer tournament.
Maze Gusa, a Northwood University student from Ubly, Michigan, earned an Outstanding Attorney Award at the 2026 Rookie Rumble, a summer tournament organized by the American Mock Trial Association for newer collegiate Mock Trial competitors.
For the first time, 100 teams registered for this year’s virtual tournament, with awards announced July 26.
“Every participant made impressive progress in improving their critical thinking, communication and teamwork skills,” said Dr. DeLois T. Leapheart, director of Northwood’s Mock Trial program. “It is a blessing to work with such motivated students who are willing to invest half of their summer preparing for an optional virtual tournament. I firmly believe the skills they develop through this competitive academic activity will pay exceptional dividends in their careers long after graduation.”
Gusa, who recently returned from studying abroad, has earned multiple individual honors through Northwood Mock Trial. She received Outstanding Attorney Awards at tournaments hosted by Case Western Reserve University and Michigan State University during the 2025-26 season.
In addition to Mock Trial, Gusa serves as a resident advisor, is a member of the Timby Catholics executive board and participates on Northwood University’s Signature Events Team (SEAT). She previously earned second place in a Perfect Pitch Competition sponsored by the Northwood University chapter of the American Marketing Association. Gusa is enrolled in Northwood’s accelerated Bachelor/MBA program.
“Rookie Rumble was all about growing stronger as a program,” Maze said. “It was awesome to see our team embrace new positions and knock them out of the park. All of our team was willing to contribute to each other’s success and made the experience worthwhile.”
Other Northwood students who competed in the 2026 Rookie Rumble included Gabriel Laske, Evelyn Wells, Isabella DeLong and Gabrielle Shelton. The Northwood students joined two Michigan State University students to form a combined team, an arrangement permitted during the Rookie Rumble tournament.
Assistant Coach Jacob Walters said the tournament provides students with benefits that extend beyond competition.
“I was very proud of the hard work our students put into Rookie Rumble, and Maze’s efforts in particular paid off,” Walters said. “In addition to skill building, Rookie Rumble gives students an opportunity to expand their professional networks through both competition and collaboration with other teams. Our students’ success and determination give me great hope for the season ahead.”
Northwood University Mock Trial competes in tournaments across the country through the American Mock Trial Association. The program provides students with experiential opportunities to strengthen critical thinking, public speaking, teamwork and advocacy skills.
For more information about Northwood University Mock Trial, visit the Mock Trial page at northwood.edu.
