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Bob Graham Center for Public Service College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

uf tournaments

The University of Florida LitiGators host a series of programs and competitions each year that bring together aspiring advocates, experienced competitors, and legal professionals. From skill-building camps to nationally competitive tournaments and community-focused events, each offers a unique way to engage with mock trial at UF.

Summer in the Swamp

Summer in the Swamp (SITS) is the LitiGators’ official summer camp for high school students and incoming college freshmen interested in mock trial. Held virtually over a weekend, the program introduces participants to the fundamentals of trial advocacy.

Campers work alongside current team members to develop case theories, construct arguments, and practice objections using a college-level criminal case packet. The experience culminates in a competitive mock trial simulation, where teams apply what they’ve learned in a realistic courtroom setting.

SITS serves as both a hands-on learning opportunity and a key recruiting pipeline, helping students explore competitive mock trial before arriving on campus. Registration typically opens in late spring, with the program taking place in August.

UF Swamp Invitational

The UF Swamp Invitational is the LitiGators’ premier in-person tournament, drawing collegiate teams from across the country. Competitors bring a fully developed case—prepared over the course of the academic year—and compete on both plaintiff and defense sides.

Known for its highly competitive field, the tournament provides teams with a valuable opportunity to sharpen their strategies ahead of the spring season. It also fosters connections between students, alumni, and local legal professionals, who serve as judges throughout the weekend.

Organized by the LitiGators’ executive board, the Swamp Invitational takes place each January and showcases the depth of talent within collegiate mock trial.

UF Growlin’ Gator Charity Tournament

The Growlin’ Gator Charity Tournament offers a more relaxed, end-of-season competition with a meaningful purpose. Held each spring, this event raises funds for the Innocence Project of Florida while giving competitors a chance to enjoy mock trial in a less formal setting.

Unlike traditional tournaments, teams compete on a single side throughout the weekend. Local legal professionals serve as judges and jurors, creating an engaging environment that highlights both skill and community impact.

As the final event of the season, the Growlin’ Gator Charity Tournament brings teams together to celebrate their work while supporting a vital cause. Additional details are typically released closer to the event.