East Islip High School’s mock trial team emerged victorious in the Suffolk County Championship on April 2, delivering a standout performance in the final round, held at the Suffolk County Surrogate’s Court in Riverhead. Judged by the Hon. Vincent J. Messina Jr., the team faced off against Northport High School in a high-stakes battle of legal minds.

East Islip’s decisive win was the culmination of months of hard work and collaboration. Making it to the finals was a total team effort, with all 14 members – alternating between plaintiff and defense roles – contributing throughout the season. In the Suffolk final round, the defense team of attorneys Delaney DeMasi, Erin McLoughlin and Olivia Stepanenko presented their case with compelling witness portrayals from Kaylee Carberry, Madison Greene and Cat Sause, while Paige Damian served as timekeeper, ensuring precision in every round. A pivotal moment came when McLoughlin successfully argued a crucial objection mid-trial, helping to tip the momentum in East Islip’s favor.

Coached by social studies teacher Patsy Lester and attorney Brian Mitchell, the team has been a playoff mainstay for years, but this season’s success is particularly sweet.

“This victory is a testament to their hard work, their support for one another, and their unwavering belief in the team,” Lester said. “I’m incredibly proud of this team – not just for winning, but for the way they got there. They put in countless hours preparing for this case, and more importantly, they lifted each other up every step of the way.”

With the county title secured, East Islip now advances to the New York State finals in Albany, where the top eight teams in the state will compete for the title of state champion from May 18–20.