HARRISBURG, APRIL 9, 2008 – State Sen. Mike Stack this week hosted the world champion Father Judge High School Model United Nations team at the Capitol in Harrisburg.

The team and their coach, the Rev. John Hurley, received a Senate citation and were recognized during the April 7 Senate session.

“This team is made up of an exceptional and dedicated group of young men, and Father Hurley has given them solid guidance and lifelong skills,” Stack said. “I’m honored to welcome them to the Capitol today. They deserve recognition for all their hard work.

Over the years, Father Judge Model UN has won numerous awards.

After competing against thousands of high school students from around the world, the team won first place in the World United Nations Championships in 2001, 2006 and 2007. They also won numerous awards at regional competitions over the years.

The Model UN team simulates the real United Nations. Throughout the year, the team participates in various competitions, where they are placed in delegations and debate issues of their designated countries.

Students must also write position papers, consult with other UN members and submit their solutions to international problems.

“Not only do the members learn about the workings of the UN, but they also get real experience in diplomacy, foreign affairs, research and public debate,” Stack said. “By participating in Model UN, the team members are getting valuable experiences that could carry them well beyond high school.”

The members of the Father Judge Model UN team are Chris Mallard, Bryan Barth, George Pinel, Dominic Mallon, Joseph McMonagle, Nick Imbrenda, Kevin Casey, Govind Kapoor, Joseph Sebastian, Steven Leslie, Matthew Danella, Michael Tori, Christopher Olley and Lukosz Przychodzien.

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