The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Teaneck Doghouse would like to recognize Solomon Shulman as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The twenty year old Yeshiva University sophomore is ripping it up on the golf course (lowest round-74; season average-81.1) and on the cross country team (fastest 5k: 17:51; fastest 8k (5 mile)-31:00; fastest half marathon: 1:25:51).
Solo, congrats on a terrific sophomore year. If you had to choose one person, who is your role model and why?
My father. He puts everyone before himself and if I could be half the man he is today, I would be the luckiest guy in the world.
As a man of many sports, which is your favorite ?
Golf, but sometimes it gets very frustrating. Missing a three foot putt is the worst feeling on the planet.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment, so far?
Coming in first place in the Festival of Lights half marathon. I was one of the youngest in the field and I ran a really great race. Felt great to break the tape.
Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?
Eliud Kipchoge—debatably the best marathon runner in the world. Most people (unless you are into running) wouldn’t know this guy’s name which is why I love him so much. He was the guy who ran the marathon in two hours and 25 seconds and even with all the fame, he still makes sure to do his own laundry and eat simply. The guys is pure humility, but also excellent.
What is your pregame routine, if you have one?
I always eat some microwavable oatmeal with a sliced banana, drink a bottle of water and try to listen to some music to put me in the zone. The music isn’t as important, but I need my banana.
What is your earliest sport memory?
In high school I fouled someone in the semifinal basketball game with one second left and actually lost the game for my team. Not going to lie it was one of the worst nights of my life. My team was great about it, but I really felt I let the team down. They can’t all be home runs and sometimes failure is okay.
What is your favorite sports memory?
On the way to golf practice last year, I was sitting in the front seat and blasting some throwback songs. Sometimes the best part of the sports is just hanging out with your friends when you aren’t competing. I’ll never forget that car ride!
What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
I love running on the treadmill while watching golf. It’s nice to hang out with my friends and I think my friends are great and all, but there’s nothing like watching golf while running. Doing two of my favorite things at one time!
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
It’s cool to be recognized for doing things I love. I’m always envious of professional athletes because they get paid for doing what they love. I think it’s pretty cool to be in somewhat of a similar position. I could talk about sports forever and I love how I’m being asked about one of my passions.
Please send nominees for an upcoming Jewish Link of New Jersey and Teaneck Doghouse Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
