Ward-Melville High School Students Say Mock Trial Team is Like a Second Family 

Feelings of anticipation and redemption surround the return of the Ward-Melville mock trial team to the New York State Bar Association’s Mock Trial State Tournament following a one-year absence. The Suffolk County team prevailed over rival Northport High School this year after a tough loss to Northport last year in the regional final.

“Coming off last season, we know what it feels like to be disappointed with the outcome of the trial, and it awarded us a lot of gratitude this year as we moved through the season,” said senior Grace Hammons.

Hammons’ teammates say the loss in 2025 was a lesson in humility and a key motivator for this year’s squad.

“It pushed me to work even harder this year as a witness and help the new people we had on the team to be the best versions of themselves – that way we wouldn’t have to be in that situation again,” said senior Rebecca Malz.

Ward-Melville’s cohesion and strong work ethic is a credit to its long-time coach Doug Elliot. The retired English teacher decided to stay on as the team adviser after students lobbied him to come out of retirement two years ago and keep coaching.

“We try to get a family atmosphere on the team. The competition is important, but the time we spend together is equally important,” he said. “You really trust your teammates, and nothing replaces that family vibe on the team, regardless of the outcome. It’s a big part of our backbone as a team.”

“The family that comes out of mock trial is so special,” agreed senior Maddie Galeotafiore. “It’s like my second home.”

Teammate Olivia Miller says the students in mock trial welcomed her with open arms as the new kid who moved into the district two years ago.

“My favorite thing out of mock trial is the community I’ve built. Some of my closest friends I’ve met and built friendship with on this team,” she said. “We are all working toward a common goal. It’s a similar feeling that I get when I play on a sports team.”

Coach Elliot is grateful for the time and spirit of volunteerism from so many bar members, especially the team’s attorney coach and Ward-Melville alum Joseph Prokop.

“The sheer number of people that come in and volunteer at the competitions, it’s an incredible endeavor that the state bar continues to do, keep it up!”