The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Dovid Ratzdorfer as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The Torah Academy of Bergen County 10th grader was JV captain at Camp Dovid this past summer where he won top defenseman in JV division. When asked about Ratzdorfer, TABC JV Hockey Coach Tzvika Paleyeff told The Jewish Link, “Dovid came in freshman year, trying out as a goalie. After realizing defense was his calling, Dovid quickly moved up the defensive ranks, becoming a very reliable defensemen. Heading into this year, we are hoping Dovid can continue to grow on and off the court and help his teammates do so as well.”
Dovid congratulations on being recognized as this week’s sportstar of the week. Who is your role model and why?
My role model is my dad because he teaches me that I need to work hard on and off the court, and no matter what, I need to act with good midos, whether it is in a game or not.
What is your favorite sport?
My favorite sport is hockey because I love the fast-paced nature of it, the intense competition and close, low scoring games.
What is your earliest sports memory?
My earliest sports memory is playing mini hockey with my brother Chaim and my friends.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
My greatest sports accomplishment is winning the Hart trophy for being the MVP in the teens and staff Mesorah roller hockey tournament this summer.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
My favorite athlete is Jack Hughes because he is a great hockey player on my favorite team, the Devils, and he is one of the best young players in the NHL.
What is your pregame routine?
My pregame routine is to stretch, then warm up by taking some shots from all around the court, then practice my clearing and passing.
What is your funniest sports memory?
My funniest sports memory is playing hockey in my driveway with my brother and pretending that we were playing in the NHL.
What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
My favorite thing to do when I am not playing sports is hang out with my friends and family.
What is your favorite sports moment?
My favorite sports memory is playing roller hockey in front of my house every day during Covid. (This is how I got good on defense. I used to play goalie until eighth grade.)
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
The best thing about being a Sportstar is that it proves that hard work pays off, even though I have not been playing defense in hockey for so long.
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]
