The Rhinelander High School Mock Trial team broke its own state record in convincing fashion, claiming its 27th consecutive regional title at the Regional Mock Trial Tournament in Wisconsin Rapids on Saturday, Feb. 11. The Hodags were undefeated on the day, earning every judge decision and besting their next closest rival by more than 100 speaker points.

Rounding out the top five teams were D.C. Everest Team #1, Marshfield, Wisconsin Rapids Team #2 and Stratford. Other high schools participating in the competition included Lakeland and Merrill. The tournament was sponsored by the Wisconsin Law Foundation, and was coordinated by attorney Richard Weymouth of Wisconsin Rapids.

Members of the RHS team include juniors Matt Anderson, Kayla Cook, Lauren Sexton, Elisha Sheffer, Melissa Sheth and Amber Toboyek, and sophomores Roz Hatlen, Lydia O’Brien and Amber Sheth. The faculty advisor for the RHS team is Kathy Vick-Martini, and the attorney coaches are Jim Jacobi and Mike Bloom.

RHS will be competing in the State Mock Trial Tournament in Madison on March 11-12. Last year the Hodags placed second in the State Tournament to Appleton Xavier. Teams from RHS have qualified for the State Finals in 20 of the past 25 years, placing first 15 times and second five times.