The Jewish Link and Drink Up would like to recognize Saadya Schulder as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Saadya is an eighth grader at Yeshivat Noam and one of the stars of the 2022 Noam Knights eighth grade basketball team. When asked about Saadya, Yeshivat Noam Head of School Rabbi Chaim Hagler told The Jewish Link, “Saadya Schulder’s game is one of balance. He plays hard, competitive basketball, but always maintains his derech eretz. He will drain a 3 on one possession and help his opponent up on the next. A perfect balance.” Yeshivat Noam Athletic Director Steve Gutlove added, “Saadya is a lights-out shooter who can be found draining 3s and midrange shots from all over the court. Although his range and consistency are impressive, what sets Saadya apart as a Sportstar, in my opinion, is his court vision and the way he is always looking to involve others in the offense.”
Saadya, congrats on being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! Who is your role model and why?
My father, because he motivates me and is there for me, win or lose.
What is your favorite sport?
Basketball, because I grew up watching and playing from a young age.
What is your pregame routine?
I like to listen to music and play around the world.
What is your earliest sports memory?
Playing on my Little Tykes hoop when I was a toddler.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
Winning back to back championships in my Hoop Heaven league.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Julius Randle, because he carried the Knicks to the playoffs last year.
What is your favorite sports memory?
Going to the Knicks playoff game last year with my father.
What is the weirdest thing that happened to you while playing ball?
One game, both teams started out shooting on the wrong hoops, until I realized and went the correct way.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
Hanging out with my friends.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Being in the newspaper so all my family can see this!
Please send nominees for an upcoming Drink Up Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
