The Jewish Link would like to recognize 13-year-old Joshie Rabitz as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The seventh grade student at Ben Porat Yosef is an all around and very dedicated athlete. He has spent many years playing in TBO baseball (including the travel team) where he is not only a valued hitter, but also a highly regarded pitcher. Usually a closer, he is also comfortable as a starter and middle reliever and has worked very well under pressure. Joshie is also an avid basketball player and has played not only in MGBL but also for BPY. Until the MGBL season was cut short by the pandemic, Joshie was leading his team in both points and assists. A family member told the JL, “Above all, Joshie is a leader on and off the field. He is always sought after as the quarterback among friends at school and the broader neighborhood, recognized as the best to play that position in pick-up games of football and always knows how to navigate inflamed passions that may arise in the course of a game.”
Joshie, mazel tov on your bar mitzvah this week and congratulations on being recognized as Sportstar of the Week. Who is your role model and why?
My grandparents (Ronald and Carol Rabitz and Rabbi Michael and Cindy Greenbaum) because they not only help me with my schoolwork and play sports with me but also show me what it means to be a good person.
What is your favorite sport?
It is difficult to decide, but I would have to say baseball and basketball. I enjoy basketball because I love the rush of going up and down the court. And there is no other feeling like pitching on the mound and striking batters out.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
My six pitch inning in travel TBO and turning a triple play in TBO.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
David Ortiz because he is so clutch.
What is your pregame routine?
For baseball, I stretch and throw the ball around. For basketball, I listen to music, shoot layups and practice my 3-pointers.
What is your earliest sports memory?
My first trip to Fenway Park.
What is your weirdest sports memory?
Pitching in a TBO game in 30 degree rainy weather to open the season while not being able to feel my hands.
What is your favorite sports memory?
The Patriots’ comeback against the Falcons in Super Bowl LI.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
Playing and connecting with my family and friends.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
I enjoy working hard to get even better.
The Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week will receive a $15 gift certificate to any Teaneck restaurant of their choice. Please contact Moshe Kinderlehrer at 201-371-3212 to receive a certificate. Please send nominees for an upcoming Jewish Link of New Jersey Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
