The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Shoshana Goldberg as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The 17-year-old and a senior at Westchester Hebrew High School is the captain of the WHHS volleyball team and really turned the team into what it is today. Shoshana organized the team into a powerful team in the Yeshiva League. When asked about Shoshana, WHHS Volleyball Coach Lindsay Lee told The Jewish Link, “Shoshana is one of the hardest working and talented players I’ve ever worked with. She leads the team with positivity and encourages her teammates to strive for growth with each game. I’ve heard countless compliments from other coaches following our games speaking to Shoshana’s prowess on the court. Her serves are our team’s signature card! Shoshana also plays an active role in our school as student body president. I’ve seen a spike in school spirit since Shoshana joined our community. I’m not surprised that she’s getting a shoutout in the least!”
Shoshana, congrats on being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! Who are your role models and why?
My role model is my mother. My mom was a gymnast growing up and competed in routines. She is a hard worker and never gives up on what she wants. I aspire to be like her both as an athlete and a person. Her kindness and perseverance makes everyone want to be around her. Seeing her in the stands cheering for me, gives me a sense of joy because I know my role model is proud of me.
What is your favorite sport?
My favorite sport is volleyball because I am able to release any tensions that I have when hitting the ball. Volleyball is not only a physical game, but a mental game. You have to be able to read where other players are hitting the ball and demonstrate a sense of confidence for your team when on the court.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
My greatest volleyball accomplishment was leading my team to their first victory of the season against Ma’ayanot. After losing two sets, I encouraged my teammates to play their best and we won the next set. Later I scored 18 points in a row while serving for my team. My serves are hard and fast, and the other team was not able to receive them. We won the game winning the last three sets, starting out the season with a bang.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
My favorite athlete is the famous soccer player Neymar Jr., who plays for the Brazil national team. Neymar constantly gets hurt and pushed down during matches. Despite his injuries he still pushes himself to be the best player and win the World Cup for his country. I find myself similar to Neymar because I play my hardest every game, despite all the falling and injuries that I encounter. I want to win for my school and team.
What is your earliest sports memory?
An earliest sport memory was first learning how to play volleyball during the summer of eighth grade. I didn’t know anything about the sport and was made fun of at the clinic I went to. Eventually I got the hang of the game and the older girls took me under their wings, in which they taught me how to serve and spike the ball.
What is your weirdest sports memory?
A funny sports memory was last year when my volleyball team was playing against Ma’ayanot and there was a leak coming from our school’s roof. A puddle started to form in the middle of the court, but we continued to play the game. Eventually I ran to save a ball and slipped right on the puddle where I slammed my head on the floor. Although it hurt at the time, I was just happy to save the ball, getting another point for my team.
What is your favorite volleyball memory?
My favorite volleyball memory was winning the first game for my school last year. We haven’t won a volleyball game in years and when I joined the team, I was able to teach my skills to the other players. This helped us grow as a team and we eventually won our first game.
What do you like to do when not playing?
My favorite thing to do when I am not playing sports is babysitting. I have been babysitting for four years and I love the kids that I work for. I love being able to act as a role model for younger kids.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
The best thing about being a Sportstar is having the ability to teach other players how to strengthen their skills. I help out my teammates with their passing and serving, which they later apply to our games, making our team play on a more competitive level.
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].
