The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize 11-year-old Ezra Grauberd as Sports Star of the year. In only his first season between the pipes, this fifth grader at the Sinai Elementary Program at RYNJ, just completed a perfect 10-0 season. Only giving up 19 goals earned (fewest in the league) earned him all star recognition and, to quote one spectator, “He tended the goal like a beast, all season.” Ezra’s coach, Yoni Zirman, told The JLNJ, “A successful goalie needs to be able to carry his team on his shoulders. That is exactly what Ezra does. No matter who the opponent, he would never back down and take on any challenge. So skillful is Ezra that at some points he had to coach me!”
Wow, Ezra, that is some high praise, congratulations on being recognized as the first ever Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Year. Who are your role models?
My parents. They encourage me to always do my best and try my hardest.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Martin Brodeur. He has the most wins of any goalie in the history of the NHL. Watching his videos inspires me to play my best.
What is your pregame routine?
I do my stretches and listen to the final countdown on my way to the game to pump myself up.
What is your earliest sport memory?
Playing t-ball with my dad in my front yard.
What is your funniest sports related memory?
When I go fishing with my dad. He always screams really loud when he has to put the worm on the hook.
What is your favorite sports memory?
Winning the hockey championship with my Maple Leafs teammates.
What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
Play video games with my friends and hang out with my family.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
The best part about being a sportstar is representing all of my great teammates who played their hardest to become champions.
The Jewish Link and Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week (Year) will receive a $10 gift certificate to Gotham Burger. Please send nominees for next week’s Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
