The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Gabriel Samson as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. On June 16, the rising fifth grader at the SAR Academy pitched a no-hitter and hit a home run to help lead his team, the Geshmake Fish Mariners, to a 2-0 win in the Riverdale KLL Junior League Championship at Seton Park. Two weeks later, he participated in USA Track & Field Youth Outdoor Nationals where he won the 11-12 Boys Discus event. He proudly paid homage to Israel on the medal stand with his stand out socks! Earlier that week he earned second place in the Javelin and fourth place in the Shot Put throwing events.
Gabriel, congratulations on being recognized as this week’s sportstar of the week. Who are your role models and why ?
My parents. They are always there for me. They have been very open to letting me try new sports each season and I have learned that hard work pays off. I’ve played baseball, basketball, soccer, badminton, track and field, golf, flag football, hockey, bowling, swimming and tennis.
What is your favorite sport?
Currently soccer because I think that’s what I’m best at right now.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
I was just honored this past spring by United States Track & Field (USATF) New York as the male Field Event Athlete of the Year for 2023 for all age groups. There was a nice ceremony. I was very proud.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Ranger Suarez. He’s a fantastic baseball pitcher.
What is your earliest sports memory?
My first track race was in Yonkers. Aba and I did a father-son relay. My Aba lost his part of the relay, but I was able to come through for the win.
What is your funniest sports memory?
Not funny, but sad. I scored on my own goalie by accident during a corner kick—oops!
What is your favorite sports memory?
Going to the Cincinnati Reds vs. Yankees baseball game. I spoke Hebrew and the Reds pitching coach, Alon Leichman, came right over. He was so kind. He autographed my baseball hat and ball, and even gave me his own “Bring Them Home” dog tag necklace.
What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
Meeting up with my SAR friends on Shabbat at Seton Park.
What is your pregame routine?
Arrive early enough to warm up, stretch and listen to some music.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Teaching kids that there are so many different sports you can play and you just need to try new ones until you find your own talent.
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].
