The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize fifteen-year-old Miriam Hendler as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. She came in first in cross-country track for three meets in a row. Last year was Miriam’s first year at Ma’ayanot. She made both the junior varsity basketball and junior varsity soccer teams; Miriam was awarded the most-improved-player for soccer. This year she made the swim team and runs cross-country for the track team. She excels in everything she tries.
The JLNJ had a conversation with Miriam about her experience as a Sportstar:
Who is your role model?
My role model is my mother. Every day, she inspires me to follow my dreams and be happy. She is definitely someone I aspire to be when I’m older.
Who is your favorite athlete?
My favorite athlete is Jackie Robinson; Jackie Robinson was the first ever black Major League Baseball player. He was pushed down by many prejudiced people but he ignored them and stood up for what was right. He didn’t let people get to him. He just wanted to play the game he loved, and that’s what playing sports is all about: doing what you love even if people push you down. His courage and bravery is something that makes him so special. I chose the number 42 on my jersey, to honor his memory.
What is your earliest sports memory?
My earliest sport memory was when I was around 10 years old and I asked my neighbors if I can play basketball with them, and they said “oh you can’t play with us because you’re a girl.” So I challenged that boy to a one-on-one, and I beat him. Ever since that I was able to play with them.
What is your favorite sports memory?
My favorite sport memory was when I was the first girl to finish the 5k run in Moshava.
What is your funniest sports memory?
My funniest sports memory was when I was in fifth grade playing baseball with my friends and I fell in a huge puddle of mud.
What do you enjoy doing when not playing sports?
My favorite thing to do while not playing sports is playing guitar, and computer coding.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
The best thing about being a Sportstar is always challenging myself and always striving to be better.
The Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week will receive a $10 gift certificate to Gotham Burger. Please send nominees for next week’s Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
