The 58th consecutive Sportsnite in Wantagh begins this year as both the Gold team and the Black team prepare to compete for the Sportsnite trophy. Co-captains Erin Gallagher and Grace Hostetter excitedly lead the Blackies with their theme “Blackies in the Race,” while the equally as spirited Goldie captains Kristen Struzzieri and Megan McCormack lead their team with the theme of “Time Travel with the Goldies.”

The girls will have about a month more to prepare for the eventful night that begins at 7 pm on March 22nd. The night will start, as tradition, once the overall Blackie captains challenge the overall Goldie captains to a “fair and fun-filled Sportsnite.” This will be followed by the girls’ usual enthusiastic cheers. In addition to being judged on spirit and organization the teams will be compete with multiple dances, such as folk, rhythmic, the four different grade dances, and final dance. There will be short intermissions between the dances where the girls will compete in sports. These sports include: cage ball, the 9 & 10 relay race, the 11 & 12 relay race, tug-of-war, and volleyball (however, the volleyball game will be played on a separate night prior to Sportsnite). Little to most people’s knowledge, art is also a big part of Sportsnite’s tradition as well. Gold and Black will be judged on their cover pictures, t-shirt designs, banners, showcase, and prop.

This year is an important year for the girls. With the Goldies having a 4-year winning streak under their belt, their main objective is to keep that winning streak going. However, the Blackies are more determined than ever to win this year. This year will be a close and exciting Sportsnite due to both the teams’ equally talented participants and captains.