The Jewish Link and The Humble Toast would like to recognize Yona Gottesman as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. A Teaneck resident and Yeshivat Noam student, Yona was nominated by his older brother Eli who says not only is Yona a great athlete, he also has wonderful sportsmanship. He is always looking out for his teammates. When his friend makes a shot or hits a home run, Yona is the first to give him a high five. Sometimes he has friends on the opposing team too, but that never stops Yona from playing the game with kindness and respect. Yona also has a love for following sports teams. He usually knows the score for most games played daily. He enjoys watching the highlights since he can’t watch every game and his friends rely on his sports updates the following day at school. Overall, Yona is a great kid with a real love for sports!
Yona, congratulations on being recognized as this week’s sportstar of the week. Who is your role model and why?
My father is my role model because even though he is a busy doctor, he makes time to learn with me and to play sports with me. He always stresses that sports are fun, but being a mensch on the court is most important.
What is your favorite sport?
My favorite sport is basketball because I like that the game moves quickly, I can shoot and have a lot of fun.
What is your earliest sports memory?
I remember going to my first Guardians game in Cleveland when I lived there and I got to run the bases after the game was over. It felt like I was playing for the MLB.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
I was playing YYL baseball. The score was tied 12-12. I hit a walkoff and we won the game!
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Donvan Mitchell is my favorite athlete because he plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers and that is my favorite sports team because I was born in Cleveland. He always tries his best. When his team is down by 20 points or more, he doesn’t give up.
What is your pregame routine?
My pregame routine is to shoot around on my mini hoop in my bedroom. It helps me get excited for the game.
What is your funniest sports memory?
When I played baseball I was on the same team as one of my brothers. One game I was on 3rd base and my brother hit a home run and sent me home. It was worth having him on my team just for that.
What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
I love to watch sports games with my family, hang out with my friends and learn Torah.
What is your favorite sports moment?
I went to a Cleveland Cavs game against the Brooklyn Nets. At the end of the game I got Caris LeVert’s signature on my Cavs hat. It was a great night!
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Getting some free food and soda.
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]
