Northwood University’s Mock Trial program celebrated an impressive showing at the Case Western Reserve University Invitational on Oct. 26, with both Timberwolf teams earning winning records against a competitive field that included the University of Michigan, Miami University, Northwestern University, and Eastern Kentucky University.
One Northwood team closed the weekend with a 5-3 record after earning victories over Rochester, Miami, and Eastern Kentucky, with a narrow loss to the University of Michigan. The second team finished with a 4-2-1 record, securing wins over the University at Buffalo and Bellarmine University and splitting ballots in closely contested rounds against Northwestern and the University of Cincinnati.
Northwood also earned recognition for professionalism. Before awards are announced, tournament competitors select one program that best demonstrates civility, justice, and fair play. Northwood was the runner-up for the prestigious Spirit of AMTA (American Mock Trial Association) Award, with Northwestern taking first place.
Individual honors capped the strong team performances. Northwood’s Maze Gusa was the only competitor at the entire tournament to earn Outstanding Attorney Awards on both the Prosecution and Defense sides of the case, an accomplishment rarely achieved at early-season events.
Northwood’s roster for the Case Western Reserve tournament included: Gabriel Laske, Excellent Abikphi, Bella DeLong, Maze Gusa, Aaron Harvey, Layla Izzat, Julian Lee, Parker Maples, Johnathan Schwegler, Barrett Tefft, Laina Tomei, Conrad Waldie, Evelyn Wells, Winston Wilcox, and Amanda Zeller.
“Our two teams of talented Northwood University students achieved winning records in this very competitive tournament,” said Mock Trial Advisor Dr. DeLois Leapheart. “Their success reflects not only their skill and preparation but also the professionalism and respect they demonstrated toward their competitors. We are extremely proud of their accomplishments and look forward to their continued success.”
Additional Success at Michigan State Tournament
The Case Western Reserve results followed another encouraging performance the week prior at Michigan State University’s Oct. 19 invitational. Several Northwood freshmen competed in their first collegiate tournament, teaming up with returning members for a full weekend of competition. After winning multiple trials, two veteran competitors brought home individual honors:
• Maze Gusa earned an Outstanding Attorney Award.
• Barrett Tefft earned Outstanding Attorney Awards on both the Prosecution and Defense sides.
These early-season outcomes signal strong momentum as Northwood prepares for the winter invitational season and the American Mock Trial Association’s qualifying tournaments.
