The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Leah Barzideh as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The Yeshivat He’Atid Eighth grader is a walking double-double and is the leading scorer for the 2-1 He’Atid Hurricanes basketball team. When asked about 13-year-old Barzideh, Coach Aaron Neufeld told The Jewish Link, “Leah embodies the heart and soul of our team. Her unwavering dedication, selfless attitude and relentless pursuit of improvement make her a true team leader. She does the dirty work without seeking any credit and her commitment to our success is an inspiration to us all. Leah is not just our team captain, she’s the embodiment of what it means to be a team player.”
Leah, congrats on a great start to the season and on being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! Who is your role model and why?
BH I have many great role models in my life, but out of all of them my dad is my greatest. He works incredibly hard at his job, but always makes time to hangout with and help me and my siblings. He is an amazing father and gives awesome advice, always encouraging me on and off the court.
What is your favorite sport?
My favorite sport is definitely basketball. I’ve been playing since I was 6 and have been in leagues ever since. Playing on a team that operates like one unit is super fun, and the overall game just gives me such a rush.
What is your pregame routine?
I don’t really have a pre-game routine, but before a game I’ll usually try to make a shot in every spot around the key and hype up my teammates.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
When I went to Hustle & Heart and won the 3-on-3, Hot Shot and All-Star awards.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
My favorite athlete is hands-down Stephen Curry. Even though I’m a Lakers fan, I have so much respect for Curry, his work ethic, his humility and his unbelievable shot.
What is your earliest sports memory?
On Friday nights, starting from when I was around 5, when the dads would go to shul, all the kids on my block would meet at one neighbor’s driveway and play line-up until it was time for dinner.
What is your funniest sports memory?
When I first started MGBL I didn’t really get the concept of rebounds, so I would just stand (directly) under the hoop and wait for the ball to come. This method would often end with the ball smashing me right in the nose, and me leaving the court after the game clutching my nose. Wasn’t funny at the time, but in retrospect…
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
I love hanging out with my friends and family, reading and cooking.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Having the opportunity to shout out my amazing team. Thank you Nili, Katie, Gal, Sydney, Atara, Liana, Kylie, Ella, Kayla, Miya, Hannah and Yael for being the best teammates ever, and coaches Aaron and Shirley for making practices and games so much fun and always pushing us to improve. Go Hurricanes!!
The Humble Toast Star of the week will receive a $25 gift card to The Humble Toast. Please send nominees for an upcoming The Humble Toast Jewish Link Stars of the Week to [email protected].
