By Trinh Pham, 12 – Timberline Writer

The Sterling Stars hosted their annual golf tournament in honor of the fallen star and former director, Erica Sanders, at the Los Rios Country Club. Proceeds from the tournament go toward a scholarship opportunity for seniors Stars. Interested senior Stars must complete an application to be considered for this special honor.

Erica attended and graduated from Naaman in 1996, where she danced with the Sterling Stars and was devoted to her team. Erica was proud of her school, proud to be a Star, and she was well liked by her climates, teachers, and fellow Stars.

“I’m extremely excited and couldn’t be any happier to be part of this event to remember Mrs. Sanders and the impact she had on the Stars program,” said senior and captain of the Stars, Uyen Le.

Local businesses, lovers of golf, and parents alike all came out for the worthy cause.

“[My] motivation to participate in the golf tournament was that it is supporting the senior Stars and it is for a good cause,” shared Kevin Caldwell, father of senior and 1st lieutenant of the stars, Savannah Caldwell.

The Sterling Stars organization has become a drill team that is revered and respected in the drill team community, and its accomplishments have become known and recognized state-wide.

“We [are] thankful for the parents that came and supported the Sterling Stars,” said senior and co-head squad leader of the Stars, Skyelar Nelson. “It was a great tournament, we learned many things from it. We, as the Sterling Stars serve to promote school spirit, work ethic, discipline, and a sense of community while developing us into the leaders.”

The scholarship in Erica’s name will be given out at the end of the school year.