The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Teaneck Doghouse would like to recognize the co-MVPs of the CMEK 2018 summer men’s league Ari Mitnick and Dan Poleyeff as this week’s Sportstars of the Week. Poleyeff is a sophomore at Yeshiva University and a member of the YU Macs basketball team, while Mitnick works in real estate. The dynamic duo was the driving force behind Team Yachad’s upset victory in the CMEK championship last month.

Ari and Dan, congratulations on the CMEK championship! Who is your favorite athlete, and why?

Ari: Kyrie Irving, because it’s breathtaking watching him play.

Dan: Lebron; He’s a champion.

What is your greatest sports accomplishment, so far?

Ari: Winning the CMEK championship.

Dan: CMEK summer league championship.

What is your earliest sport memory?

Ari: Scoring for the first time on a 10 foot hoop.

Dan: Playing CMEK in fifth grade.

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?

Ari: Hang out with family and friends.

Dan: I play guitar and write music during my free time.

What is your pregame routine of you have one?

Ari: First thing I always do is go right next to the hoop, like a foot away, and shoot for a couple of minutes. It helps me get into a rhythm pretty quickly and it’s helps to see the ball go in a bunch of times. Even though it’s a one foot shot, it’s the same mechanics as a regular shot, so it usually translates well for games. Also stretching is crucial. I don’t play unless I feel I’ve stretched enough.

Dan: Hit the sauna for 10-12 minutes.

What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?

Ari: I guess it give you the confidence to go play even better the next game.

Dan: Sharing the honor with Ari.

The Teaneck Doghouse Sportstar of the Week will receive a $15 gift certificate to Teaneck Doghouse. Please send nominees for an upcoming Teaneck Doghouse Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].