On Saturday, March 13, the Garden City girls basketball team defeated Southampton at Hofstra University attaining its second consecutive Long Island Championship. With a final score of 64 to 36, Garden City dashed Southampton's hopes of a trip upstate.

The girls came out strong in the first quarter, forcing nine turnovers and holding the Mariners to eight points. Despite a terrific team effort, the Trojans led by only seven at the end of the first quarter. However, that lead was quickly extended to 18 in the second quarter and the Mariners' shot at a comeback was soon out of sight. The Trojans continued to pull away with every member of the team contributing. The key to the Trojans' victory was the selfless way in which the girls moved the ball, especially in the first half. Each girl had one and only one thing on her mind: winning the game. Bethany LeSueur had 23 points and 12 rebounds and played an excellent all around game. Eleanor Weille was exceptional on defense and created numerous offensive chances. Forwards Nora Chulupsa, Katie Kimball and Lauren Seery took away Southampton's only offensive threat by containing Garrette Glinton. Marybeth Hogan turned their guards over relentlessly and Erin Schoelle worked tirelessly on both ends of the court. Amy Appelt was all over the floor and was second leading scorer with 10 points. Tania Barnett, Kerin Boghosian, Kristin Seaman, Laura Micelli and Samantha Lucas exemplified the Trojan's team mentality with their aggressive play and unselfish passing.

The Long Island Championship not only proved Garden City to be the best team on the island, but it also marked the return of Lauren Kast, a talented senior guard who tore her anterior cruciate ligament in October. Lauren opened her season by blocking a shot and playing an outstanding team game.

Garden City will advance to the state semifinal round with hopes of erasing the memory of last year's heart-breaking loss to Oneonta. This year's team is more experienced, and if it continues to play with the tenacity and intelligence displayed against Southampton, the Trojans will bring home their first state title.