The University of Tennessee Winston College of Law’s National Moot Court Team claimed first place at the Region VII Competition of the 76th Annual National Moot Court Competition, held in November at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law.
This marks the National Moot Court Team’s fourth regional championship in the last six years, solidifying UT Winston Law’s reputation as a perennial powerhouse in appellate advocacy. With this victory, the team advances as regional champions to the National Final Rounds in New York City in January.
National Moot Court Team members Elijah Parkhurst, Maia Poulos, and Jaleigh Rogan, all third-year students, represented Winston Law. Their performance culminated in the regional championship title and the coveted Best Brief award. Further individual recognition came for team member Maia Poulos, who was named Best Oralist in the final round.
The Winston Law team advanced through a competitive field, defeating several strong opponents throughout the tournament. The team earned its place in the elimination rounds with a victory over Charleston School of Law, defeated the University of Memphis School of Law in the quarterfinals and Vanderbilt Law School in the semifinals. The championship title was secured with a final-round victory over the University of Mississippi School of Law.
The National Moot Court Competition is an annual inter-law school event promoting appellate advocacy, sponsored by the New York City Bar Association and the American College of Trial Lawyers. More than 110 law schools compete in regional rounds nationwide, with top teams advancing to the National Finals.
Longtime coaches and professors emeriti John L. Sobieski, Jr., and Don Leatherman guided the team to its tournament win.
“This team truly exemplifies the dedication and talent we strive to cultivate at UT Winston Law,” said Sobieski. “Their hard work, ability, and poise under pressure were evident in every round. We couldn’t be prouder of their achievement.”
Both coaches were impressed by the team’s commitment to research, writing, and practice.
“Elijah, Maia, and Jaleigh rose to every challenge, and their synergy as a team was a joy to witness,” said Leatherman. “This victory is a testament to their individual and collaborative excellence.”
The preparation paid off, bringing the team through intense levels of competition.
“Winning the regional championship feels incredible, and it’s an honor to represent UT Winston Law on such a significant stage,” said Poulos. “I’m especially grateful for the support of my teammates and our coaches.”
“Every round presented a unique challenge, and we learned so much through the process,” said Parkhurst. “Our ability to adapt and refine our arguments was key to our success. We’re excited to carry this momentum forward.”
“This entire experience has been invaluable,” said Rogan. “From the preliminary rounds to the championship, we supported each other and improved with each round.”