The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Teaneck Doghouse would like to recognize 17-year-old Gabi Goldberg as this week Sportstar of the Week. The Bruriah High School senior is a key contributor on the Lightning varsity basketball team. Bruriah’s athletic director Susan Rifkin told the JLNJ, “Gabi Goldberg is a positive influence on every environment she’s in. Gabi has grown from a bench player who received minimal playing time to a two-year captain and starter, earning both with hard work and gumption.”
Gabi, yasher koach on this honor and another great season. Who is your role model and why?
My role model is my father. Without him I would not have become the basketball player and person I am today. I look up to him. He is kind and patient and always wants the best for his players. He practiced with me even when he had a million other things to do. He taught me to always do my best, be kind on and off the court and never give up—even if there are five seconds left. His love for the game inspired me to play and love it too.
What is your favorite sport?
Definitely basketball.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
My greatest sports accomplishment was in Hustle and Heart basketball camp when my team won the championships. I will never forget that feeling!
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Stephen Curry. He was told he was too small to make it to the NBA, but he didn’t let that stop him. He practiced and trained for hours every day and he made it! I learned from Curry to always have confidence, play the way you know how to play and to practice every single day to become the best player you can be.
What is your pregame routine, if you have one?
Listen to music, read my mother’s pump up texts and give myself a pep talk.
What is your earliest sport memory?
Playing and practicing in my backyard with my father and brothers coaching me and having family basketball and soccer games.
What is your favorite sports memory?
My favorite sports memory was scoring a hat trick in my soccer game.
What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
When I’m not playing basketball, I’m probably hanging out with my family and friends.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
The best thing about being a sportstar is that it allows my Bruriah teammates and coach to be recognized for this accomplishment because without them I would not be nominated.
The Teaneck Doghouse Sportstar of the Week will receive a $15 gift certificate to Teaneck Doghouse. Please send nominees for an upcoming Jewish Link of New Jersey and Teaneck Doghouse Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
