Río Hondo College Mock Trial Team Launches Season With a Strong Start
Posted on October 30, 2025 by Río Hondo College | Category: Homepage News,Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | RELEASE DATE: October 30, 2025 | CONTACT: Dalilah Davaloz (562) 692-0921
(Whittier, Calif.) — The award-winning Río Hondo College Mock Trial Team opened its 2025-26 season with an impressive performance at an intercollegiate scrimmage hosted by California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
Competing against teams from CSUN and Moorpark College, Río Hondo earned a win in one of three rounds and demonstrated the professionalism, preparation and composure that define the program.
The scrimmage offered students an invaluable opportunity to apply their knowledge of the law in a realistic courtroom setting while developing critical thinking, communication and advocacy skills. One student even connected with the CSUN Mock Trial coaches to discuss trying out for their team upon transfer — a meaningful reflection of how the program supports both academic and university transfer.
Faculty Advisor Connie Isais, who also served as a judge during portions of the competition, said the weekend strengthened team cohesion and provided insight into how other institutions approach trial strategy and coaching.
“Spending two full days with the team allowed me to see their growth in action and to help foster stronger bonds between members,” Isais said.
Río Hondo College President/Superintendent Teresa Dreyfuss praised the team’s performance and the dedication behind it.
“Our Mock Trial Team continues to make us proud,” Dreyfuss said. “Their discipline, teamwork and passion for advocacy embody the spirit of Río Hondo College and show how our students turn academic preparation into real-world excellence.”
Board of Trustees President Oscar Valladares also commended the students for their commitment to excellence and representation of Río Hondo College.
“The success of our Mock Trial Team is a testament to the talent and determination of our students and the exceptional guidance of their faculty mentors,” Valladares said. “They exemplify what it means to rise to a challenge and lead with integrity — qualities that make our entire College community proud.”
The team’s strong showing builds on recent accomplishments. Earlier this year in February 2025, the team competed in the Regional Tournament of the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) at Claremont McKenna College, where they were honored with the Spirit of AMTA Award for outstanding sportsmanship, civility and fair play.
The team now looks ahead to the Corey J. Wlodarczyk Invitational Tournament in November, where they will continue to refine their skills and proudly represent Río Hondo College.
For more information about the College, please visit riohondo.edu.
RHC_Image 1: Featuring RHC student Mock Trial Team and Faculty Connie Isais.
RHC_Image 2: Featuring RHC student Mock Trial Team.