Empire Dedicates Spirit of Empire Award in Vicki Lyle’s Honor
We Honor the Long-time Empire coach’s legacy of passion, support and love.
In the halls of Sylvania Southview High School and the heart of the Empire Mock Trial community, Vicki Lyle left an indelible mark as a coach, mentor, and friend. This fall, we celebrated the legacy of a woman whose passion for mock trial, unwavering support for her students, and love for life itself impacted those around her.
Katy Osborn, a friend whose team has gone head-to-head with Vicki's team over the years, shared this about Vicki:
"She was a bright spot at every competition. She had a passion for mock trial. She loved the challenge; she loved winning. But most importantly, she loved the kids.”
Vicki's mock trial journey was illuminated by her infectious enthusiasm. At every competition, her spirit shined brightly, becoming an inspiration for her students and fellow coaches alike. Mock trial wasn't just a competition to Vicki; it was a community where she fostered growth, resilience, and a sense of family among her team.
Beyond the courtroom, Vicki played a pivotal role in nurturing the personal growth of her students. Her encouragement was not limited to legal advice; it extended to instilling confidence, self-belief, and the understanding that greatness lies within each individual. Her presence was a comforting reminder that success is not just about winning cases but about building character and resilience.
"Vicki played such a pivotal role in developing my self-esteem because she always believed in me and she let me know that she did" said Hannah Mock, a senior at Sylvania Southview High School.
“She led with her heart and she was full of humor and strength, and it was clear that she did what she did with all her mock trial teams and students with love” shared Carl Gebo, a coach at Ida Wells High School in Atlanta.
Vicki's leadership style was defined by warmth, humor, and unwavering strength. Whether navigating mock trial competition or life's challenges, she approached everything with a heart full of love. Her dedication to her mock trial teams was a testament to her commitment to each student's overall development. Vicki believed in the power of connection and strived to establish bonds that went beyond the courtroom.
At the World Championship Closing Ceremony on November 6th, the Empire Mock Trial community came together to pay a heartfelt tribute to Vicki. A special "Spirit of Empire" award was dedicated in Vicki's memory, acknowledging her enduring impact as a coach, mentor, and friend.
Vicki's husband, Denny, graciously traveled to the Hilton Chicago and accepted the award on her behalf, surrounded by the love and support of the Empire family.
Reflecting on the his wife’s legacy, Denny asked us to share the following:
“Vicki’s inner strength was the rock upon which our program was built. From being the oldest woman in the world to undertake experimental treatment, to continuing to fight for her clients as her health diminished… she did so with the same grace and elegance she displayed in the mock trial arena.”
Accepting the Spirit of Empire dedication on her behalf, Denny summarized his wife to a crowd of over 650:
“She never gave in, she never gave up, instead she gave all that she had.”
At Empire, we will give all that we have at Empire to keep Vicki’s memory alive.
This award tribute not only honors Vicki's legacy, but also serves as a reminder of the profound influence she continues to have on the Empire Mock Trial community.
In the words of those who knew her best, Vicki's spirit was a force that anchored on an unyielding commitment to people. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the students she empowered, and the community she enriched. Vicki, you are forever remembered and deeply missed.
"Vicki, you dedicated your life to your community, your family, and mock trial.
You will forever be missed." - Amber Rumancik
