Written by: Alberto Robles
Day 2 of the 2024-25 State Conference begins, and things are already intense. On the first day of official competition, delegates head to their sections to compete in everything they’ve worked for. Competitors are spread throughout the city of Austin, with events taking place at various locations: Legislative at the Kalahari, SAF at the Capitol, and Judicial at Austin Community College.
At Austin Community College (ACC), the day began with anticipation as groups were assigned to their competitions. As delegates settle into their groups and courtrooms, tension rises — it’s now time to showcase everything they’ve worked for.
In one courtroom, with the case of Wanda Waffle v. Herb Salt, students prepare for the outcome. As they wait for an evaluator, students review case notes, documents, evidence, and read over their scripts. When the evaluator enters the room, students shift their focus, fully committed to their characters. It’s a chilling story of multiple opinions, with each student deeply immersed in their roles, playing out a devastating narrative. Wanda Waffle, grieving the loss of her child, Hazel Nutterson, who tragically died due to unannounced, ignored, and deadly cross-contamination.
When asked, a delegation group from Houston commented, “Since the bus ride here, we’ve been going over notes!” This highlights the dedication of many other schools, which have been practicing since Day 1 of the conference. Students underwent two trials before noon, alternating between the defense and prosecution sides.
By the time 12:30 p.m. rolled around, students were ready for a real recess. When lunch came, students around campus shared laughter and commented on their cases and trials. Delegates returned to their respective sections, refocused and ready to face the challenges of the afternoon cases. The competition was far from over, but the drive and dedication displayed by each delegate remained a driving force.