The Jewish Link and Drink Up would like to recognize Shmuel Yablok as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Shmuel is a senior at Torah Academy of Bergen County (TABC) and a big part of the TABC varsity basketball Storm’s first place 7-1 start to the season that includes a Globerman Tournament championship. TABC’s Coach Hoenig told The Jewish Link, “Shmuel Yablok is one of a kind. He is serious about basketball but, at the same time, he possesses a full appreciation of life in a larger context. In addition to being one of TABC’s star basketball players, he is an excellent teammate and friend to each member of our squad. Shmuel comprehends the fine line between seriousness and comedy, always bringing pleasure to all of us. It has been an honor to be his coach.” Rabbi Yitz Rabovsky, TABC director of Student Activities and Athletics added, “Shmuel has a quiet intensity about him and never takes a play off. At the same time, he plays in total control and never lets his emotions get the better of him.”
Shmuel, congrats on a great start to the season and for being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Who are your role models and why?
My role models are my parents because they taught me how to persevere which is very important in competitive sports.
What is your favorite sport?
Basketball, because I love the opportunity to compete both individually and as a team in a fast paced sport.
What is your pregame routine?
Nothing special, before the tip off I pump my arms because of Russell Westbrook.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
Winning the Glouberman Tournament with my team in Los Angeles.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Russell Westbrook, because of how he plays the game. He always gives 115%, plus his uniqueness in style.
What is your earliest sports memory?
Having a football catch with my dad in the park.
What is your weirdest sports memory?
A couple years ago I was at a baseball game and the guy behind me spilled his popcorn on my head.
What is your favorite sports memory?
When the St. Louis Cardinals won the World Series in 2011.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
Hang out with friends.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Seeing my hard work pay off and feeling motivated to work harder.
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/yZy37A5hkHwhS3B88 at https://drinkitup.us/ or message Steve @ 201 578 7425. Please send nominees for an upcoming Drink Up Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
By Jewish Link Sports Desk
