The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Atara Cooper as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The Yeshivat He’Atid eighth grader is one of the many stars of the He’Atid Hurricanes that are currently among the top teams in the very competitive YMSSA Girls Basketball League. When asked about Cooper, He’Atid Hurricanes head coach Aaron Neufeld told The Jewish Link, “I’ve had the privilege of coaching Atara since she was in fifth grade, and she is the kind of player every coach dreams of having. From the moment she joined our team, she instantly became a cornerstone of our program. There isn’t anything she can’t do on the basketball court. She is incredibly athletic, she can jump out of the gym, and she dominates in every aspect of the game. Beyond her skills, Atara is a coachable athlete who leads by example. The He’Atid girls athletic program wouldn’t be where it is today without her hard work and dedication. Any high school athletic program will be incredibly fortunate to have her for the next four years, and I will certainly miss her.”
Atara congratulations on being recognized as this week’s sportstar of the week. Who is your role model and why?
My role model is my mom because if I ever make a mistake, she encourages me to keep trying as hard as I can.
What is your favorite sport?
My favorite sport is basketball because it really helps me connect with my teammates. I also really like it because it is so fun to play and I can play for a long time without getting bored. I really love playing for the He’Atid Hurricanes!
What is your earliest sports memory?
My earliest sports memory is when I was 4 years old and I played in little league soccer, and I scored my first goal.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
My greatest sports accomplishment was getting the MVP of my team in MGBL after winning the championship.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
My favorite athlete is Caitlin Clark. I find her dedication and success in basketball very inspiring. She inspires me to keep playing and fighting as hard as I can.
What is your pregame routine?
For basketball and soccer, I practice shooting before the game. My team often practices layups and plays to help everyone.
What is your funniest sports memory?
My funniest sports memory was when I was playing soccer with my sister and I kicked the ball and my shoe went flying off.
What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
Whenever I am not playing sports, I like to spend time with my friends and family. I also like to practice basketball.
What is your favorite sports moment?
My favorite sports memory is when I won two championships in a row (two years in a row) in MGBL.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
The best thing about being a sports star is being able to share my sports experience with everyone.
The Humble Toast Sportstar of the Week will receive a $25 gift card to The Humble Toast. Please send nominees for an upcoming The Humble Toast Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week to [email protected]
