Congratulations to the Hicksville Americans Soccer Club boys U-8 "A" tournament team, the Stars. The boys took first place at the 100% Soccer Holiday Tournament at the World Gym in Setauket, New York on Dec. 28. Given the name of the tournament, it is no surprise that the Stars gave 150 percent as they battled their way to the tournament title. The team played a total of four 25 minutes games.

In game 1 the Stars played against a tough and fierce Sachem Soccer Club team. Sachem finished in second place, two points behind the Stars. The exhausting game ended in a 2-2 tie as Tyler Arnone scored both goals for the Stars. In game two, the team played against a strong, defensive-minded Commack team. The team won with a bang as they shut them out 8-0. The Stars' scorers included Brian Friere with a hat trick, Terence Pfeifer, William Heuser, Stephen Trifilio, Thomas Moore and Michael Torrellas. After the game the team's confidence grew greatly and they were ready for anything in the next two games. In game 3 the Stars played against a well-coached Commack offensive team. The Stars played with their hearts and won 5-0. Derek Letosky, Heuser, Freire, and Arnone (2 goals) scored for the Stars. James Cusack assisted and took many shots on the goal during the game.

After this game it was clear the Stars would have to keep the momentum going for the last game to clinch the tournament title, and they did just that. In game 4 the Stars defeated a strong Lake Grove Soccer Club 8-0. Scoring for the Stars were Michael Callahan and Keith Toribio, Torrellas, Trifilio (hat trick), and Pfeifer (2 goals).

In the end the Stars played four dynamite games of soccer as a team. The defense played great as the team recorded three shutouts in four games and rarely allowed opponents to reach the Hicksville side of the field. The team's defense was anchored by the strong play of goalies James Cusack and Terence Pfeifer.

The most amazing statistic of all, however, was that each player on the team scored at least one goal during the tournament. This is a remakable statistic at any level of the game.

The Stars, their parents, families and friends would like to thank the outstanding coaching staff for all their hard work in making the team rewarding, special, and above all, fun for everyone. Thanks to head coach Ray Pfeifer and assistant coaches Mike Callahan and Luis Freire for the unforgettable memories that these boys will never forget. Everyone is so proud of the Stars and we wish them the best of luck at their upcoming tournaments. 1-2-3 Go Stars.