A win and a loss, but excellent arguments in any event.  The loss was a little heartbreaking, in that it was by half of one point.

I remain optimistic for our teams’ chances in the next round, the final preliminary round, which will take place tomorrow morning.  These students are incredible oral advocates.  I wish I had video tape of each of the rounds I’ve seen.  It has been a pleasure to sit in the audience, beaming with pride at Marquette’s moot court program.  I will keep you “posted” on our progress tomorrow.

I am currently in Boston serving as coach to two teams of Marquette law students who are competing in the National Appellate Advocacy Competition’s Boston Regional Competition.  The teams are Alyssa Dowse, Rachel Helmers, and Nicholas Harken (this month’s student blogger); and Jesica Ballenger, Lindsey Johnson, and Allison Ziegler.  This evening at 5:30 p.m. both teams argued off brief in their first round.  I am delighted to report that both teams won!

The next round happens tomorrow evening.  Both teams will be arguing on brief, so I am feeling very optimistic about their chances. Wish the teams luck!  I will keep you posted.

(Note:  The Liberty Hotel, pictured above, which is hosting most of the out-of-town competitors, is in Beacon Hill on the site of the historic Charles Street Jail.)