The 2003 ILNY Cup ushered in the first Light Up the Arena Opening Ceremony. It was more than we could have ever imagined. This year we will open competition on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings with our very special Ceremony. You can not believe the energy and emotion when the entire 5000 seat arena is darkened, save for the 1000 glow necklaces handed out to spectators, while the gymnasts march individually into a white spotlight. The music is powered by the arena’s sound system and the announcer is magical. You look up; see the entire place applauding only you and then you hear your name announced. There is simply no feeling quite like it.

At Saturday evening's Opening Ceremony we will be awarding the Annual ILNY Cup Leadership award. This is a very special ceremony honoring the one gymnast competing at the meet who has exhibited qualities of a leader and role model in the gym. The award will be presented as the coach’s chosen song is played in the background and a video of the gymnast is displayed on all four large screen TV’s at each end of the arena. There wasn’t a dry eye last year. This is a tremendous honor and accomplishment to receive this award. You don’t wan to miss the ceremony.