For The Starlets, the 33-member Hicksville High School kickline team, each season demands many long hours of rehearsal, competition, coordination and precision. The team has garnered many trophies over the years, but because of the large amount of time and dedication to dance, a sense of team spirit and camaraderie is fostered. After performing with each other for four years, all of this came together for the Starlets as they now add another title to their collection - First-time National Champions!

Sponsored by Scholastic Kickline, the championship was held at Hofstra University and included dance teams of all ages from Long Island and around the tri-state area. Each team was judged in the categories of "Pom," "Kick" and "Hip-Hop." After winning first place in both "Pom" and "Kick" in many regular season competitions, the Starlets took home a national championship in the two categories, as well as third place in "Hip Hop."

"There are no words to describe how excited the members of this team were at the championships," said first-year team coach Kristin Lupardo. "They've worked hard and have been dedicated to their sport - some for four years. I'm very proud of them."

As a sign of good sportsmanship, the team's competitive spirit was put aside as they accepted an invitation to a reception held by their former rival, the Arrowettes of Sachem. The entire team accepted and traveled eastward for a gathering of hardworking, creative young women who appreciated each other for the sacrifices they make during the year.