When the 9-year-old Hicksville Crusaders football team was assembled last August, no one knew exactly what to expect. There were 13 new players joining the squad and, with that amount of rookies added to the previous year's team, the coaches had a very challenging job. They would have to meld the new players and the veterans into one cohesive unit. Within the first weeks of practice, the coaches began bringing the boys together.

Once the games began, it became apparent that this team was developing into a close knit group of players and friends that were responding, not only to each other but also to their wonderful coaches. Under Coach Ketelsen's and Coach Capel's leadership, the boys were given a foundation upon which to build. It was obvious that the ultimate goal of the team was to make the playoffs. The 9-year-old Crusaders not only accomplished their goal but also had a great deal of fun along the way.

The parents, grandparents and friends of the team came to each game with a great deal of anticipation. It was the manner in which these boys played that was so enjoyable to watch. Win or lose, they carried the colors of the Hicksville Crusaders proudly, fearlessly, and courageously. To watch this team of 9-year-olds play these games with this type of intensity was nothing short of spectacular. By the end of the season, they had continually exceeded everyone's expectations. They proved once again that they are "the team that never quits".

In August 2009, the Crusaders will convene for a new season and you, too, can be part of the excitement. Visit www.HicksvilleCrusaders.com for a registration form.