The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize AJ Mandel as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The eighth grader at the Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey was the assistant captain of the 7-1 first place RYNJ Jaguar hockey team. Classmate Eli Wiederkehr told The Jewish Link, “AJ is one of the most skilled players I have ever seen play at the eighth grade level. What makes him special is he gets it. He works very hard and it pays off! He loves to win but more importantly he always respects his teammates, the opposing players and all coaches. He has a very high hockey IQ. AJ was a force of the RYNJ Jaguars season as an assistant captain finishing in first place and winning the regular season. AJ is also a star in the New Jersey Falcons ice hockey team.” RYNJ Middle School Boys Principal Rabbi Avi Bernstein added, “A leader on and off the court, AJ can be found initiating or encouraging others to join a chesed project with enthusiasm and care. Enthusiasm on the court is mirrored everywhere else, especially during davening. As someone who deeply cares about tefillah, AJ is a wonderful role model for those around him. And always, with a big smile and a thank you afterwards.”
AJ, happy birthday and congrats on being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! Who is your role model and why?
My role model is my father because he always encourages me to do my best.
What is your pregame routine?
My pregame routine is listening to music, warming up my legs and putting shots on the goalie.
What is your favorite sport?
Floor and ice hockey, because I love the game and have been playing since the age of 3.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
Being the assistant captain of the RYNJ Jaguars.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
My favorite athlete is Artemi Panarin because of his hustle throughout the game.
What is your earliest sports memory?
Going with my family to the Ice House to practice my skating for the ice hockey season.
What is your weirdest sports memory?
Shooting a backhand across the court and scoring.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
Spending time with my family and friends.
What is your favorite sports memory?
Winning an ice hockey tournament on the Avalanche team.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Being noticed for all my accomplishments.
The Humble Toast Star of the week will receive a $25 gift card to The Humble Toast. Please send nominees for an upcoming The Humble Toast Jewish Link Stars of the Week to [email protected].
By Jewish Link Sports Desk
