The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Meir Stimmel as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Stimmel is a member of the Teaneck Road Runners that can often be seen lapping the streets of the 07666. Last month he jogged 2.78 miles in less than 27 minutes, making an impressive menorah on the south of cedar streets.
Meir, congrats on being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! What is your favorite sport?
Growing up I gravitated to whatever sport was being played as I just enjoyed being out there playing with friends. Now with familial responsibilities and not having as much time, I look forward to getting in my sunday morning softball games and adding more championships (go Knockouts!).
What is your pregame routine?
I usually do some light stretching before a game/run/ride. If I go out on my bike, I will check the tires, grab some snacks and make sure all my gadgets are charged.
What is your favorite sports memory?
From more recent memories, I would say watching my son (Gabriel) score his first goal in travel soccer was a big one. His team always seemed to be matched up against the local version of the Icelandic youth hockey team (Mighty Ducks), but they always played hard and never gave up.
Who is your favorite athlete and role model?
There is an older runner I have seen over the years crisscrossing Teaneck with amazing consistency. It is not about pace or distance, but just getting out and doing what he loves. I don’t know who he is, but everytime I see him I get inspired and reinforce my goals of running and staying active as long as I can.
My local run/bike club members have also provided much inspiration and encouragement to me over the years. If it was while I was recovering from a torn achilles, going out on a run together, or even just seeing their activities on Strava, it is always pushing me to do and be better.
What is your earliest sports memory?
Growing up we would play roller hockey almost daily in our neighborhood cul-de-sac. Those games hold so many great memories for me.
What is your funniest sports memory?
Can I just say watching the Jets play football??
A close second would be my son’s 3-4 year old soccer group when they would “scrimmage” at the end of the session.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
My favorite things to do when not playing sports would be hanging out with my family and friends and taking long solo runs or bike rides. Being out running or riding allows me time to think and work through anything that may be on my mind.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Will be watching the shock on my son’s face as he reads this on Friday night (Hi Gabe!)
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].
