The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize Ikey Gutlove as this week’s Sportstar of the week.
On January 6th, the 13-year-old Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey 7th grader went up to block a shot, lost his footing, landed on his hands, fracturing his left wrist and right thumb. The Jaguars played well in his absence, but were thrilled when the tri-captain was cleared to play last week at BCDS.
In a game that showcased tremendous passing and defense, Ikey finished with a double-double (12 points and 11 assists) and helped the RYNJ Green Team cap its regular season with a three- game win streak. The game also marked Coach Steve’s 75th victory as coach of the RYNJ Jaguars.
When asked about his son’s play, Coach Steve told the JLNJ, “In most scenarios, coaching your son and his friends is a recipe for disaster. However, with Ikey and his team it has been a pleasure. This is a great group of boys and Ikey is a tremendous leader both on the court and off. He is not the loudest voice. but lets his play and middot tovot do the talking for him. Mazel tov on this award and on your bar mitzvah!!”
Ikey, who would you say is your role mode?
My parents, because they teach me the meaning of hard work and putting 100% effort into everything I do.
What is your pregame meal?
The famous Gotham Burger, Steak Burger.
What is your earliest sports memory?
Hitting a game winning home run to win the championship on my 3rd grade little league team on Father’s Day.
What is your favorite sports memory?
Swishing a buzzer beater from beyond half court at SAR.
What is your favorite thing to do when not playing sports?
Playing NBA2k15, watching the Knicks, Mets, and Islanders play, or getting ready for my upcoming bar mitzvah.
What is the best thing about being a sportstar?
Being on a team with great coaches and teammates, playing with great teamwork, and having fun.
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]
