On Monday, SAR Academy had the incredible honor of welcoming members of Israel’s Olympic judo team to school! Silver medalists Inbar Lanir and Raz Hershko along with bronze medalist Peter Paltchik, inspired students by sharing their experience at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Raz Hershko shared her powerful story of how her dedication to judo helped her overcome childhood bullying and achieve her dreams—she encouraged the students to follow their hearts.

The team captivated SAR’s fourth, fifth and eighth grade students by sharing the history of judo, its origins in Japan, and the techniques of falling safely. They even demonstrated some moves and invited students (and Rabbi Krauss!) to join in the fun—practicing, sparring and wrestling with each other!

This year’s Olympics marked a historic milestone for Israel, with its athletes earning six medals in one weekend and 20 overall—a record-breaking achievement! These champions have triumphed through immense challenges, including confronting antisemitism, making their success all the more meaningful.

Joining them were Moshe Ponte, president of the Israel Judo Association; Shany Hershko, Israel’s women’s coach and two-time EJU Coach of the Year; and Sacha Roytman, CEO of the Combat Antisemitism movement (CAM).

It was an unforgettable day as SAR Academy celebrated these extraordinary athletes and their achievements—leaving everyone inspired and energized!