Last year, at the 2003 ILNY Cup, we honored a very special gymnast, Nicole Ford. Nikki was a graduating senior whose hard work and commitment to the sport earned her the love and respect of her teammates at Southern Tier Gymnastics Academy. We knew we would miss her very much and decided to present Nikki with a farewell gift. At the time, we didn’t know how important her influence would be for younger gymnasts until we received the following note from Lee McAfee at NYC Elite Gymnastics:

“The presentation to Nicole was very touching. Several of our older athletes were inspired by her story and have set their minds on a college scholarship. It also helped them realize what leaders they are in the gym. We tell them that all the time, but now they know what we are talking about. Thanks again. We'll see you next year.”

We were very touched and knew we had to continue to highlight young gymnasts who exemplify this type of leadership. In retrospect, we decided that Nikki had received the First Annual ILNY Cup Leadership Award.

The 2nd Annual Leadership Award will be presented at the 2004 ILNY Cup’s “Light Up Your Heart” Opening Ceremony on Saturday, February 14, 2004. A committee of impartial members chosen from the Binghamton community will review applications and choose five gymnasts from the 2004 competitors who provide leadership both in and out of the gym. These five gymnasts will be presented at the “Light Up Your Heart” Opening Ceremony. The committee will then vote for this year’s award recipient from among the five acknowledged leaders.

The recipient will receive a special gift from the ILNY Cup presented by this year’s celebrity, Morgan White. Also, the five chosen leaders will be provided with free lodging at the ILNY Cup Gymnastics Village. We know that every gymnast works very hard all year round. If we could, we would give every ILNY Cup competitor a recognition award for their commitment. But we also know there are a few who not only work hard but also take seriously their responsibility to positively influence their younger teammates. These few know how important leadership is and take seriously the part they play as a role model. The ILNY Cup Leadership Award recognizes this extra effort.

We hope you will consider nominating a special leader from your gym. Above are links to the Application and Frequently Asked Questions.  If you are unable to download the application please contact us at john (at) ilovenycup.com or leave a message for John on his cell phone 607-759-6428. AND, don’t miss the 2004 ILNY Cup’s “Light Up Your Heart” Opening Ceremony on Saturday, February 14, 2004.