The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize Shia Forgash as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Shia Forgash played well at shortstop and came up with a couple of huge hits for the Teaneck Travel 8U summer champions. A veteran of TBO travel baseball who loves the game, Shia can be found at the batting cages throughout the winter and is in the Seth Bendian baseball camp during the summer.
Shia’s mother, Cindy Forgash, told JLNJ, “He also is a great team player. Even though he is 8-1/2 he understands that it is a team effort and is considerate of others. The one play from the championship that stands out in my mind is the way he gently tagged out the other team’s player. He didn’t attack the kid, but softly tagged him so it would not hurt him.”
Shia, yasher koach on the big win, who is your role model?
My parents, because they will help me with whatever I need. If it’s at home or practicing baseball, they will be there.
Who is your favorite professional athlete?
Steven Matz, because he is just like me. He is skinny, fast and a good hitter.
What is your pregame routine?
Before I play I drink, stretch and have some fun with my friends.
What is your earliest sport memory?
My earliest memory is my first Mets game. My brother and I are diehard Met fans, so it was special to go to the ballpark and watch them play.
What is your favorite sports memory?
Sitting next to the ball boy at a Mets game and catching a ball. After I caught the ball the whole section cheered for me.
What is the funniest sports related thing that ever happened to you?
I left my glove in sleepaway camp. I bought two new gloves and one of them was a copy of the same one I lost in camp. Then my mom asked a bunch of people who worked there if they had the glove. My mom’s friend brought it back before my mom even asked for it! I am still wondering how that friend knew it was my glove.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
I like to hang out with my friends. Playing sports is very important to me.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Being a sports star is great because it makes me happy, proud and makes me feel good about myself.
The Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week will receive a $10 gift certificate to Gotham Burger. Please send nominees for upcoming Gotham Burger Sportstars of the Week to [email protected].