The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Jordi Siegel as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The Frisch freshman was the captain of the YMSSA championship winning Yavneh Redhawks girls hockey team last spring. The Jewish Link asked Aliza Hiller, Yavneh Academy’s athletic director and the coach of the league champion Redhawks about Jordi: “Jordi’s love for hockey was obvious to everyone in school from when she was a little kid. It was so exciting when she finally got to sixth grade and could play on the team, where we got to see that her love for hockey matched her ability to play and desire to grow in the sport. Jordi was always on the court early practicing her shot and stick handling. All that practice paid off as she led her team to the championships her eighth grade year where she scored two goals—including the one to tie and take the lead! Jordi didn’t just lead on the court, she led off the court as well. As team captain she would always make sure the team was getting along, keeping up with their workouts and loving the game as much as she does. Jordi was a pleasure to coach over the years and will surely be missed!”

Jordi, congratulations on being recognized as this week’s sportstar of the week. Who is your role model and why?

My mom. She is always at all of my games cheering me on. She also played sports when she was younger and she’s the reason I do now.

What is your favorite sport?

Hockey. All three of my older brothers played it when they were growing up. I’ve been waiting to play ever since I saw them play. I also love how fast paced it is. It’s a fast paced intense game and it’s the best sport to watch or play—it’s just so thrilling.

What is your earliest sports memory?

When I was in second grade Ma’ayanot had this small floor hockey league for girls but it was only once a week. I also played sports on Shabbos or after school in my backyard.

What is your greatest sports accomplishment?

Leading my team to winning the championship my eighth grade year as the captain of the Yavneh Redhawks. I’ve been waiting for it for a long time and I’m excited to hopefully play for the Frisch team too.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

Adam Fox, a Jewish hockey player for my favorite team. He was also one of the first Jewish players to ever win a big award in the NHL.

What is your pregame routine?

I don’t do much but before every game during warmups I hit the crossbar with the ball just for good luck. It’s worked until now so I might as well keep doing it.

What is your favorite sports memory?

My favorite hockey memory is winning championships with my amazing team and coach. That victory was even more rewarding because of all the hard work, dedication and countless hours of practice we put in together. From the first practice to the final game, our coach believed in us and pushed us to be our best. My teammates were incredible, we supported each other through every challenge. When we finally won the championship, the happiness and excitement we all felt was indescribable. It wasn’t just about the trophy, it was about knowing we had accomplished something special together, as a team.

What is your funniest sports memory?

When my brothers would play in TABC Jr Hockey I would go on the court during intermission just so I could play as much as I could because I love the sport.

What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?

I love watching the Rangers if they are playing that night. Especially if it’s a playoff game.

What is your proudest sports moment?

I am really proud of winning my first belt in Taekwondo, and I’m also really proud of my dad, who plays roller hockey against teams that are much better than him.

What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?

Hanging with your teammates during practices and games and the bus rides to games is just such a good bonding experience. There are very few others like it. Also, the feeling of winning is very rewarding.

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]