The Jewish Link and Drink Up would like to recognize 13-year-old Eliana Mogul as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The recent graduate of the Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey was one of the many talented weapons on the MJDSBL eighth grade girls championship team and the Dr. Rachel Jacobs Dumont Dentist Tooth Fairies TBO champions. When asked about Eliana, RYNJ coach Shaina Gross told The Jewish Link, “Eliana is one of the hardest working players I’ve coached. She has amazing defensive skills. I am so glad we had the opportunity this year to work together and coach her.” A RYNJ parent echoed Coach Gross, saying, “Eliana is a true point guard, always looking to get her teammates involved. She plays with tremendous midos and always gives 100% effort”
Eliana, congrats on your graduation, the two championships and for being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! Who is your role model and why?
My parents because they do a lot of chesed and even their jobs as occupational therapists involve helping people. Also, they have helped me grow through the years and I’m so grateful for that.
What is your favorite sport?
I like to play all sports, but the one that I love to play most is basketball. Basketball is the ultimate team sport. It’s really important to me because every time I step on the court, I feel a connection with my teammates and love to play together as a unit.
What is your pregame routine?
Before I play any sport, I like to do a couple of stretches and listen to music to pump me up. For basketball, I like to practice my shooting and handles. For softball I like to practice pitching, fielding ground balls and catching pop ups.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
Winning the basketball championship for RYNJ, especially after the sixth and seventh grade seasons were canceled due to covid.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
My favorite athlete is Joel Embiid because he always tries and never gives up. I remember when he hit a buzzer beater in overtime against the Raptors in this year’s playoffs. He never gave up and had the confidence to take the game winning shot for his team.
What is your funniest sports memory?
When a ref came up to my mom after a basketball game and told her that I am small, but play feisty like a tiger.
What is your earliest sports memory?
My earliest sports memory is when my dad taught me how to play basketball and softball at a young age.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
When I am not playing sports, I like to hang out with my family and friends.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
The best thing about being a sportstar is being recognized for all the hard work I put into any sport.
Please send nominees for an upcoming Drink Up Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
