THRIVE Students report that through Mock Trial, they gain important insights into their own capabilities and potential and find their confidence strengthened from a safe learning environment – and they had a lot of fun. “Because of the Longs’ persistent faith in abilities I didn’t know I had,” said Mock Trial alumni Jessica Irwin ('05), “my timidity became courage, and my fears morphed into confidence. I learned how to think critically and clearly on my feet, to speak with conviction, and question assumption. I became a better writer, a better teammate, and a better person for it.” Irwin competed at the State competition three times and brought home awards for best lawyer and best witness. Nicolas Peterson ('13) credits Mock Trial with many personal growths. “As someone who lacked confidence, it helped me a lot to be put in those uncomfortable positions where I had to decisively make objections and stand by them, doggedly go after a witness in cross examination, or keep my cool under vigorous questioning.” Camaraderie and fun are vital elements in many extra curricular activities and the Longs made sure everyone felt included. “We were well coached, and it showed in the way that we enjoyed each other’s company. We burned CDs of pump up music for our drive down to the City Council Building and you might have mistaken us for a sports team as we celebrated our victories at the close of the day,” says Liesel (Mindrebo) Mertes (’02).
The Longs not only taught valuable skills and created a fun learning environment, but they served as influential mentors whose relationships with some students continued after graduation. “The Longs attended my high school graduation open house and presented me with my very own copy of Pirates of Penzance. They also attended my wedding,” said Katie (Fleetwood) Fowler ('03). “I still receive Christmas cards from the Longs. Well after I’ve lost touch with most of my fellow Mock Trial friends, the Longs remain in my life.” The Longs are fondly remembered for taking an interest in and remembering details of student’s daily lives. Many students shared that the Longs helped them feel at ease despite the intense and sometimes stressful nature of the competitions they participated in. “Their time never felt begrudging. I knew that Doug and Lynette truly enjoyed the time they spent with the team. I could tell from Doug’s firm handshake of affirmation and Lynette’s quick laugh that they loved being with us,” shared Mertes. In the spring of 2017, Doug Long accepted a position in St. Louis, but stipulated that for the first year he didn’t work Fridays. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the Longs drove back to Indianapolis to continue coaching their senior Mock Trial team. What amazing dedication. Their investment in the hundreds of students who have participated in the program has been multiplied many times over. Quite fittingly, the Longs were recently recognized for their years of service
by the Indiana Bar Foundation, receiving the Woods Dedication Award at the Indiana Mock Trial State Finals in March of 2018. “Thank you Doug and Lynette for seeing in me something I could not see in myself, for always pushing me to be my best while never making me feel small or inadequate,” says Irwin. Mertes echoes that sentiment. “Thank you, Doug and Lynette, for not only giving to my teams over the course of two years but for faithfully and consistently coaching a generation of Heritage students. I am grateful to you both for how you invested in me!” “The Longs saw us as a Mock Trial team, but they also saw us as unique individuals, deserving of their care and attention,” says Fowler. “Your support throughout the years has been invaluable.” “The great benefit of Mock Trial is that it helps kids grow in confidence as they trust God to help them in new situations,” said Doug. “We hope that many more students will be involved in the future.” “Doug and I feel like we have gained so much more than we have given,” shared Lynette. “We have made so many friends through this experience. It has been a blessing to us from the Lord.” The Heritage community is thankful for the Longs and other volunteers like them who selflessly dedicate their time and their hearts to our students.
SPRING 2018 HERITAGE MESSENGER
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