The Jewish Link of New Jersey would like to recognize 17-year-old Dena Sheer as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Sheer is a senior and a two-sport star at Bruriah High School, leading both the soccer and volleyball teams. Sheer and the Bruriah Lightning Varsity-B volleyball team finished the season 8-2 and, when the season was suspended, they were poised to play Magen David in a much anticipated championship game.
Dena, congratulations on another great season. Who is your role model and why?
I appreciate the effort both my parents put in for me to play sports, especially for carpooling once or twice every week. I can always spot them in the crowd cheering me on at all my many games.
What is your favorite sport?
Well, I have been playing soccer since 10th grade and volleyball since ninth grade, so it is really hard to pick between them. I love the teamwork necessary for volleyball and the rush of playing I get from soccer.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
During one of this year’s volleyball games, it was the last hit allowed before it had to be sent over the net. The ball came close to the net, a difficult hit to get. With one hand, I saved the ball and hit it up and over the net and won the point for my team.
What is your earliest sports memory?
I remember playing basketball in my backyard.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
The American Ninja Warrior Barclay Stockett is the same height as me. She exemplifies that being short is not a disadvantage.
What is your favorite sports memory?
In 10th grade, my first time playing soccer, I learned a lot of new skills through various drills at practice. During one soccer game, I noticed that I was applying the new skill of turning with the ball. At one point, despite my playing defense, I gained possession of the ball, quickly switched directions towards the goal and took a shot. Even though the goalie saved it and I didn’t get the goal, I felt so proud of doing everything I needed to.
What is your pregame routine?
Before and during every game, I always drink a yellow Powerade.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
I love creating art.
What is your weirdest sports memory?
One time after it snowed, my siblings and I created a volleyball court out of the snow and played volleyball.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
I have been playing sports all four years of high school and it has been challenging to balance my schoolwork with it. Being nominated has inspired me to focus on my love for sports even more.
The Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week will receive a $15 gift certificate to any Teaneck restaurant of their choice. Please contact Moshe Kinderlehrer at 201-371-3212 to receive a certificate. Please send nominees for an upcoming Jewish Link of New Jersey Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
