The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Lillach Atiya as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Atiya, is a senior at Yeshiva Frisch and recently signed a commitment letter to play Lacrosse at Muhlenberg College. In addition to her obvious on the field excellence, when asked about her, the staff at Yeshivat Frisch could not help but shower her with praise; Rabbi Jonathan Morgenstern said, “Lillach is someone with a profound passion for her Judaism. She is a spiritual seeker who is always looking for ways to connect and elevate in her relationship to Hashem, to her Tefillah and to her friends and peers.”

Elissa Katz shared, “Lillach cares about her fellow students. She is concerned about everyone’s welfare. She is the one that her fellow students turn to when they have a problem and she takes that responsibility seriously and is always willing to be lend an ear and be a sounding board for all.”

Ruth Wang-Birnbaum added, “Lillach Atiya’s personal standard to achieve excellence, combined with her drive to self- actualize, makes her an extraordinary force. She is congenial, charming and an absolute delight.”

Leba Pollock agreed, “Lillach defines the word excel—from academics to social, and her electric positivity. You will not see a better balancing act of all the challenges a high school student faces, and she does it all with grace and a smile.”

Rabbi Andrew Israeli also shared, “Lilach is an incredibly devoted student athlete, who has really shined both on and off the court. Her humility has taken her this far and she has the ability to accomplish great things.”

Lillach, congrats on being recruited to play for the Division III Muhlenberg Mules lacrosse team and for being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! Who is your role model and why?

My role model is Henny Machlis ז״ל she was an incredible tzadeikas that would host hundreds of people every Shabbos for a meal. I look up to her because of her amazing emunah and hospitality. Her midos were like no other; She did not limit the amount of mitzvot she could fulfill. I hope to constantly live with her midos in mind.

What is your favorite sport?

My favorite sport is lacrosse because of the connection I created with it, in the past 10 years of playing. Lacrosse comes with an incredible community, who is always there for one another.

Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete has to be Max Seibald, who is a retired, Jewish professional lacrosse player. He played professionally for over 10 years. When I was younger he trained me for a number of years, at my sleep away camp. From these memories he became an athletic role model because of his skill level and nice and caring personality.

What is your pregame routine?

My pregame routine is to listen to very upbeat music, to get in the proper mindset.

What is your greatest sports accomplishment?

My greatest sports accomplishment is being able to play lacrosse in college, at Muhlenberg College, after playing for so many years.

What is the weirdest thing that has happened to you while playing Lacrosse?

After a game, I was told a girl on the opposing team will soon be my teammate, since we will be playing lacrosse together in college.

What is your earliest sports memory?

My earliest lacrosse memory was after my first practice, when I came home with a big bag of equipment. My parents were really confused and I had to explain to them I was going to be a goalie.  I stayed with this position ever since!

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

My favorite things to do when not playing sports are hanging out with friends and shopping.

What is your favorite sports memory?

My favorite sports memory was being able to teach disadvantaged children in Israel how to play lacrosse. I was able to connect my love of lacrosse and my love for Israel. This was an incredible experience that I will remember for my entire life.

What is the best thing about being a Sporstar?

Being able to share my love for the sport and all of the skills I have learned over the years.

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 Stars of the Week to [email protected].

By Jewish Link Sports Desk