The spotlight was on the Hillcrest High School Mock Trial team at Committee of the Whole
Simpsonville, S.C. — The Hillcrest High School Mock Trial team—formed by students Jerelle Anthony, Bella Collins, Ryan Hurson, Nick Fann, and Nikki Wu, was recognized by City Council at the Committee of the Whole meeting on Aug. 26, 2025 for taking 1st place in the YMCA Youth and Government National Judicial Competition.
Councilman Lou Hutchings (Ward 6) introduced the item during the Presentation portion of the agenda. Advisor to the team and Hillcrest High teacher Dr. Ashley Causey and Executive Director of SC YMCA Youth in Government Mary Capers Bledsoe praised the students not only for their win but also for taking initiative to form the team, learn and practice the mock trial process and skills, and even hold fundraisers to pay for their team expenses.
The Hillcrest High team faced formidable opponents who had expert coaches and extensive experience, and Hillcrest High came out on top.
