The Jewish Link would like to recognize 10-year-old Shira Goldas this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The fifth grade student at RYNJ is a talented gymnast who competed in Level 3 in the Garden State Winter Invitational sponsored by the Jewish Gymnastics League on Sunday February 9, in Boonton, NJ. Shira earned a 9.1 on her balance beam routine which was the highest score for girls her age. In addition, she earned an 8.7 on her floor routine which earned her a medal, as well. Shira worked very hard for the competition, training at Flipping Forward and conditioning multiple times a week at home. Shira is a fantastic girl who is always happy and positive and fun to be around.
Shira, congratulations on a great finish at the Garden State Winter Invitational. Who is your role model and why?
My older sister Ariella because I always look up to her. She is really good at gymnastics and since the first time I saw Ariella compete, I have been determined to make the team also.
What is your favorite sport?
Gymnastics. It is my favorite sport because it makes me strong and flexible and because I am really good at it.
What is your greatest sports accomplishment?
Winning first place on beam at my first competition with a score of 9.1.
What is your earliest sports memory?
Learning how to do a cartwheel when I was 4 with one of my favorite coaches, Gerald.
Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Simone Biles because she is the GOAT. Her routines are really fun to watch because she does cool moves.
What is your favorite sports memory?
Doing a roundoff back handspring for the first time by myself and then moving up to team.
What is your pregame routine?
I usually stretch, especially my wrists so they don’t hurt afterwards. I also put my hair up so it doesn’t get in my face. I also need to do conditioning several times each week, in order to become stronger.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
I like to do cartwheels all over the house. I also like to play basketball and hang out with my friends.
What is your weirdest sports memory?
When I was doing one of my cartwheels on the tumble track and I hit Gerald in the face.
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
Getting recognized for my really hard work and accomplishments.
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].