News

Wagoners Inducted Into Mock Trial Coaches Hall of Fame

On March 18, 2007, Ruth and Jim Wagoner were inducted into the American Mock Trial Association Coaches Hall of Fame.  This honor is bestowed upon coaches who have not only produced excellent competitive results over a long period of time, but whose programs have upheld the high ethical standards of the American Mock Trial Association.

Dr. Marcus Pohlmann, the current President of AMTA and the coach of the Rhodes College Mock Trial Team, called Ruth and Jim's selection a "no-brainer."  His speech at the awards ceremony highlighted the Wagoners' accomplishments (five National finals, one National Championship win, 22 consecutive National Championship appearances) in addition to the quality, integrity and class of the program and its coaches.  Pohlmann called Bellarmine's 1999 National Championship team one of the best teams in the history of the American Mock Trial Association.

Ruth and Jim have been surrogate parents to so many mock trialers throughout the years.  In addition to teaching students the nuts and bolts of mock trial, they have provided them with opportunities that may otherwise have been unavailable.  Countless students have taken jobs on Ruth and Jim's suggestion, participated in legal programs because of their influence, and been accepted to law school on the strength of their recommendations.

Like any parents, they have their own unique approaches and personalities.  You can often find Ruth in the Communications Wing of Bellarmine University, a swarm of mock trial students buzzing about and running ideas by her.  She is at her best when the students are discussing new theories or different angles, and her willingness to facilitate those discussions and openness to different viewpoints has been invaluable.  Jim is the inspirational leader of the program.  Part drill-sergeant, part teddy-bear, he keeps the mock trialers on their toes and supports them when they need it.  His advice and teaching on matters from evidentiary arguments to appropriate attire has made Bellarmine Mock Trial what it is today.

It is a testament to the Wagoners' unique impact on their students' lives that there wasn't a dry eye among this year's team members when their coaches were recognized.  The Bellarmine Mock Trial program thanks AMTA for honoring its coaches for all their hard work and dedication.