Central to Jewish education is the concept that each generation is a link in a continuous transmission of tradition, dor l’dor. The understanding that a student isn’t learning solely for his or her own benefit, but also to honor generations prior and to hand over information to those that follow, suggests a responsibility to a broader community and set of ideals that are greater than the individual alone.

This understanding was the central message imparted to past and current RKYHS basketball players in the first-ever Kushner boys basketball alumni game, held at the end of August. Six of the nine graduated seniors from last year’s playoff team participated in a regulation, refereed game against potential rising varsity players. Following the game, the players davened mincha, ate pizza and heard Divrei Torah from these celebrated school alumni.

The graduated players shared insights from their experiences in the basketball program and offered words of wisdom to upcoming players. They shared what it means to be a part of a team, sacrifice for one another and commit to goals that push oneself to reach one’s full potential. As last year’s team was the most successful group in many years, the alumni shared valuable information that they had learned to the next generation of players. The current players learned from the experiences of those before them, hoping to use this mesorah for a second straight playoff berth. Each player learned that their individual and collective accomplishments are building blocks in creating a tradition, an edifice that is greater than oneself.