The Jewish Link and Drink Up would like to recognize Netanel Berkowitz as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Netanel is a freshman in the Sinai program at Torah Academy of Bergen County and a huge sports fan. He loves to root for most of the local teams, but bleeds Giants Blue.

Leah Rosenberg, program coordinator at Friendship Circle, told the Jewish Link: “When I see Netanel playing sports, he always has a huge smile on his face. I often see him outside at TABC playing basketball with his friend and having the greatest time.”

Student Caleb Breda added: “Netanel is a really amazing kid. He has a great attitude when it comes to sports. Whether playing video games or in real life, basketball is definitely one of his favorites. His basketball skills are trick-shot worthy, always emulating the newest Dude Perfect shots. His 2K game is pretty respectable, too.

“Netanel is definitely competitive, but he is always mindful of what the right thing to do is. His sportsmanship outshines his skill and competitiveness. He’s a hard worker, refusing to give up attempting a good shot until it goes in (more than just once)! It’s always a fun time playing and hanging out with Netanel.”

Netanel, yasher koach on being recognized as this week’s Drink Up Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week. Who are your role models and why?

My Dad. He’s great at sports like basketball, football and pool. Also my mom. Both of my parents help me.

What is your favorite sport?

Basketball—it’s a good workout and I like being part of a team. I also like watching people dunk.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

Lebron James because he has an awesome dunk. I also like Harden on the Brooklyn Nets. They have a strong and powerful team.

What is your earliest sports memory?

Playing with my dad, but he’s too good for me!

What is your favorite sports memory?

Watching a video of a dunking tournament.

What is your pregame routine?

Every week, I do a workout routine with my teacher. I do weights and pushups. I also drink water because that helps me play.

What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not playing sports?

Playing basketball on my XBox. Listening to music or NBA news on my iPod.

What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?

People are going to see my picture in the newspaper and that’ll be awesome.

The Drink Up Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week will receive a 5% discount on their next order @Drink Up. Order with https://forms.gle/k8cjADWpMne9bPed7 or message Steve Gutlove, 201-578-7425. Please send nominees for an upcoming Drink Up Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].