The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Teaneck Doghouse would like to recognize 23-year-old Jake Ratzker as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The Yeshiva University junior is a key contributor on the YU roller hockey team. This past weekend, when his team needed him most he came up huge with one goal and two assists against Drexel University and three goals and two assists in a big win against the #17 ranked in the nation Penn State University. Jake leads the team with 24 goals and 18 assists in 15 games and was just announced to the All Star Game in D2.
Jake, congrats on another great season. If you had to choose, who is your role model and why?
Probably Michael Fruchter. He was my teammate last year in Yeshiva and plays the game the right way and is a great leader on and off the court.
What is your favorite sport?
Golf.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
I once shot a 78 at the golf course in Bethpage.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
My favorite athlete is PJ Dimartino. He played on the USA National Roller Hockey team and is someone whom I model my game after. He’s dynamic in all the right ways and is a pleasure to watch.
What is your pregame routine, if you have one?
My teammate, Benjy Shulman, and I have a specific high-five we do before every game that gets us in the zone.
What is your earliest sport memory?
Lacing up the skates with my brother Zach during the winter and skating on a local pond.
What is your weirdest sports memory?
One time we were playing a game and I was extremely exhausted and I actually thought we were playing with a bagel instead of a puck!
What is your favorite sports memory?
Representing Yeshiva University in the National Tournament last year in Fort Myers, Florida. It was a great experience and a dang good time!
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
Going to Golan Heights restaurant.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Roller hockey has taken me to places I would never imagine. Like last year, going to the Chabad in Fort Myers, Florida during our National Tournament and then also going to Fuego in Miami on that same trip. Such great memories that I’ll never forget.
The Teaneck Doghouse Sportstar of the Week will recieve 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].
