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Home , 1998 World Youth Games, 2005 Maccabiah Games, 2009 Maccabiah Games, 2013 Maccabiah Games, 2017 Maccabiah Games, International Army Games

VOLUME 16 | NUMBER 2 | FALL 2018 THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF MACCABI USA

Matt Finesilver 2 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE MACCABI YOUTH GAMES THANK YOU 3 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE UPCOMING EVENTS 4 RECENT EVENTS 5 FUND-A-DREAM 2018 INTERNATIONAL MACCABI 6 YOUTH GAMES 2019 PAN-AM MACCABI GAMES 7 2019 EUROPEAN MACCABI GAMES LEGENDS OF THE MACCABIAH 8 LEGACY LISTING DONOR PROFILE 9 VOLUNTEER PROFILE INSIDE THIS ISSUE THIS INSIDE the U.S. Army Class Athlete Program. He 2013 he encouraged Mitchell, along with his 10 & 11 NEWS also took part in basic training for the Olympics other brothers to apply for the Maccabiah and was ranked top 5 in his weight class in the Games. Both Mitchell and Matt excelled at the U.S. He is a world-class athlete, literally and Trials and were selected as members Wrestling Spotlight figuratively. of the Open Team. Their dream of competing internationally became a reality in the summer Wrestling has been a right of passage for Nate The 2013 Games had a tremendous impact on of 2017. Engel, Mitchell Finesilver, and Matt Finesilver, Nate as an individual and an athlete. He was all of whom have been wrestling practically competing at a high level, and when he first Mitchell had an unbelievable experience that since they could walk. Nate’s father was a got to he was only concerned with the summer. When asked about the impact the high school wrestling coach so he was born competitive nature of the Games. Flash forward Games have had on his life he said, “you do into the sport. Whereas, the Finesilvers are to 2017 when as a veteran wrestler Nate not get a lot of opportunities to be able to do each part of two sets of twin brothers whose served as a role model for the Open Wrestling something you love to do [wrestling] and have parents signed them up for wrestling, a sport team. He understood that the bigger picture of it tied to your heritage, religion, and ancestry, that channeled their “rowdy” energy. The 20th the is the “experience that but through the Maccabiah Games you get it World Maccabiah Games were Nate’s second individuals have in addition to the training”; it all.” The Games are a memory that he will keep time as a participant with Maccabi USA and was important for him to win but also to be a forever; they have changed his life. They have the first time for both the Finesilver brothers. mentor to his teammates. given him the itch to travel, a love for competing internationally, and a newfound confidence Nate first got involved with the Maccabiah Mitchell and Matt Finesilver first heard about the going into future competitions. Games because of his grandparents, Holocaust Maccabiah Games from other Jewish athletes survivors, who when liberated from the camps and were always interested in competing. Matt’s fondest memory from the 2017 in walked by foot back to their home While the brothers come from a large Jewish Maccabiah Games were the friendships he in . Both their influence and his family, their Jewish community in Colorado is developed with his teammates. He notes that wrestling status in college as an elite athlete small. Ironically enough, when Mitchell was he felt a big difference in being part of Team led him to apply and compete at the 19th World competing at Duke University his senior year USA at the Maccabiah Games versus being Maccabiah Games in the summer of 2013 in of college, Coach Nate Engel reached out to part of his college team at Duke University. Israel. In addition to joining the Open Men’s him, and through sharing his experience from The Open Team genuinely cared about Matt’s Wrestling Team in 2013, Nate was training for (continued on page 2) PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Wrestling Spotlight (continued from front page) After the largest and We develop, promote and support most successful international, national and regional athletic- Nate Engel Maccabiah in 2017, based activities and facilities. We strive to with nearly 10,000 provide Jewish athletes all over the world participants from the opportunity to share their heritage and almost 80 countries, customs in competitive athletic settings. We both Maccabi USA support programs that embody the Maccabi and Maccabi World ideals of Jewish continuity, and Union deserved to excellence in sport. take a breath. But, with 2018 being an open Mission accomplished! year in the Maccabi calendar, the inaugural Maccabi Youth Games (MYG) were born. If ever there was a feel-good program, this was it. Jewish youth from the Diaspora Initially, this was met with trepidation joined their brothers and sisters from Israel from many members of the Movement, in hard-fought competition, while getting to for reasons ranging from “it was too soon embrace their heritage and strengthen their after the Maccabiah” to “there might not be Jewish identity. enough interest.” The Games were primarily held in Haifa. Candidly, some of the leading countries did Our Team was housed at the same facility not send Teams to the MYG, and others as Great Britain, and . The young only a skeleton crew. But, as a leader in the success on and off the mat. While he athletes were able to bond with both wanted to prove himself, the support Maccabi Movement, we had an obligation to members of their own Team, as well as the was always authentic. Another highlight support this new event and never wavered others. for him was the elite level of his team in our resolve to send the largest Team members, “some world-renowned, some possible. When the competitions were over, we went veterans of the Maccabiah Games, but all touring in and . The tour incredible wrestlers who had excelled in Dr. Marc Backal, Maccabi Youth Games of the Old City culminated with the moving tough competitions from other countries,” General Chair, worked tirelessly on the B’nai Mitzvah Ceremony at The Kotel, led said Matt. “When you train with other elite athletes you soak up what they are doing, project. We would like send a big thanks by the beloved MWU Rabbi Carlos Tapiero. to our devoted volunteers and professional you learn from them, and you look to them staff. As is always the case, the tour of Yad for guidance to help you be the best you Vashem was the ultimate reality check can be.” I am proud to say that the inaugural Maccabi and put everything else in the proper As individuals, Nate, Mitchell, and Matt, Youth Games were an unquestioned perspective. As the generation of survivors as well as all their other teammates success. There were 800 athletes, ages is rapidly dwindling, never has it been more brought home multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals. The success of the 14-16, representing 12 countries. Other important to expose Jewish youth to the than Israel, we had the largest contingent international wrestling program has incomprehensible horrors of the Holocaust. also led to domestic success as both with a team of 200. But, at the end of the day, nearly 200 Jewish Finesilver brothers competed in the 2018 NCAA Wrestling Tournament in multiple That success was not determined by medals youngsters returned to the as won, but rather by successfully fulfilling our rounds; they were ranked among the top the next generation of ambassadors for the 16 seeds in their weight classes. Nate mission: State of Israel. was named Assistant Wrestling Coach at Stanford University in July 2018 and will Maccabi USA, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Mission accomplished, indeed! organization, endeavors, through sports, also serve as the Director of the California to perpetuate and preserve the American RTC program. Jewish community by encouraging Jewish These athletes experienced the “Magic pride, strengthening Jewish bonds and of the Maccabiah.” Something that they encourage any eligible athlete to by creating a heightened awareness of partake in as well; if the athlete has the Israel and Jewish identity. The volunteer opportunity to compete they should “make organization seeks to enrich the lives of it happen” said Mitchell. Jewish youth in the United States, Israel and Jeff Bukantz, President the Diaspora through athletic, cultural and educational programs.

2 | sportscene | Fall 2018 Wrestling Spotlight Maccabi Youth Games Thank You (continued from front page)

“My favorite part was meeting people from “My favorite part of the Games was playing my “The high level of competition, ability to meet around the world, and of course playing against favorite sport in the most spiritual country.” new people, and to play a sport I love were all people from all over the world.” – Anna Voskoboynik, Junior Girls’ amazing parts of the Youth Games.” – Samantha Edelman, Junior Girls’ Soccer “I have played since I was a little kid – Charles Presser, Junior Boys’ Basketball “My favorite part of the Games were the and have been in many tournaments, but this “Playing rugby with kids from other countries friendships that were made and representing wasn’t like any other tournament. As much was really an awesome experience, and I team USA internationally.” as I enjoyed the competition and winning the became good friends with a bunch of them – Hannah Margolis, Junior Girls’ Soccer gold, nothing could compare to the emotions - now we connect on Instagram and hope to “Meeting new people from around the world I felt playing in Israel alongside other great meet up again sometime in the future. Playing was the best part of the trip.” Jewish athletes from around the world. The for my country, USA, was also a different entire experience on and off the court was truly experience from all my other sport events in – Roy Branitzky, Junior Boys’ Basketball amazing.” clubs and school teams in LA. It was inspiring “My favorite part of the Games was making – Max Hattem, Junior Boys’ Basketball to explore my Jewish roots in Israel and see friends that will last a lifetime.” amazing sights like the Western Wall. The food “The best part of the Youth Games was the – Asher Leveen, Junior Boys’ Basketball was incredible too!” opportunity to socialize and meet new people. “I couldn’t identify one part as my favorite; from The second-best part was winning gold. All – Liam Carthy, Junior Boys’ Rugby my teammates, to the competition, to meeting around it was an incredible experience.” other people, to experiencing Israel, this was a – Aaron Kreithen, Junior Boys’ trip of a lifetime that I will never forget!” – Emily Talkow, Junior Girls’

Executive Director Message Let me start by wishing you and your family a I am excited to draw your attention to the back cover where we list belated Shanah Tova. Since our last edition of our new Fund-A-Dream supporters. These Dreammakers have each SportScene, I finally had my first opportunity to committed at least $1,800 a year over the next 4 years to help support attend and experience an international Maccabi multiple athletes to participate in upcoming Maccabi USA programs and Games event. I was part of Maccabi USA’s events. These vital resources will allow Maccabi USA to provide need- delegation to the inaugural Maccabi Youth Games based scholarship to hundreds of athletes who would otherwise never be this past summer in Israel, where we brought a able to participate at the Games and in turn experience ISRAEL CONNECT. team of over 200 members, far exceeding the This week-long educational experience - a required component of the number of athletes from any other country. Maccabiah Games for all Team USA Junior, Youth, and Open athletes - is, Although many of our seasoned volunteers who have served as according to a recent study by Brandeis University, even more effective in chairs, coaches, and managers of past Games cautioned me that this engaging young to the than Taglit-Birthright. experience was only a small taste of the excitement and impact of the It is our hope that many of you reading this, whether a past athlete, parent, quadrennial Maccabiah Games, from where I stood, I could not imagine Mission participant or a recent Masters athlete, will Lend a Hand so that anything topping the impact on the lives of young American Jews than others can share the joy of being part of the Maccabiah experience. these Games. My reaction only reinforced how honored and privileged As an “incentive” for our prospective first-time or returning Masters athletes I am to be in a position where I can work to help ensure Maccabi USA to become a Dreammaker, if they are selected to play in the 2021 Games has the necessary resources to make these experiences accessible to their Fund-A-Dream contributions will have fulfilled in full their tax-deductible as many Jewish athletes as possible. charitable contribution commitment, which was $6,000 for the 20th It will come as no surprise to those reading this column that a common Maccabiah Games in 2017. To learn more about how you can help make concern we hear is that the Maccabi Games experiences are “very dreams come true for young Jewish athletes around the country, please expensive.” Please know that we recognize that cost of participation is a visit www.maccabiusa.com, call me on my direct line at 267-627-5652 or major consideration for many of our athletes. Our leadership recognizes simply return the attached envelope today. that for us to continue providing these once-in-a-lifetime experiences to thousands more Jewish teens and young adults we need to vastly broaden our base of support. It is at this time that I hope you do not flip ahead to another article but instead keep reading and then take a moment to reach David Snyder, for the envelope stapled in the middle of this publication. Maccabi USA Executive Director Fall 2018 | sportscene | 3 upcoming recent events 23rd Annual Philadelphia/Southern events New Pro/Am Tournament took place at Woodcrest Country Club in Cherry Hill, NJ on June 12, 2018. The Tournament Co- Chairmen, Bob Spivak, and Marc Zumoff along with the Tournament Directors, Bruce Apple, December 7-9, 2018 Larry Burns, and K.C. Isdaner; and the Steering Maccabi USA Leadership Weekend Committee, Louis Barson, Mark Edfordt, David Renaissance Hotel, Newark, NJ Lorry, Bruce Marks, Jon Miller, Mel Miller, Ross L-R: Scott Schaffer, Scott Tanker, Zack Smith, Miller, Mark Rabinowitz, Michael Spivak, and Ken Hoffman, Bruce Apple Merrick Wetzler worked hard to make the first The Golf Tournament raised over $40,000 to December 9, 2018 ever pro/am golf tournament a success. The support the programs and projects sponsored event brought in over 80 golfers and supporters! Legends of the Maccabiah Gala by Maccabi USA. New York, NY Masters 35+ Soccer Tryouts for the 2019 Pan May 12-21, 2019 American Maccabi Games Maccabi Access took place July 28-29, 2018 at Israel Randall’s Island in New York. They were organized by Masters 35+ Soccer Co-Chairs Michael Coakley July 5-15, 2019 BACK L-R: Roman Vayner, Jackie Soussan, Boris Kapelnik, and Jamie Hamilton. There was 14th Pan American Maccabi Games Josh Freeman, Adam Darter, Zach Viders, Roy Sharaby, Mattia Chasson, a great turnout with a mixture Head Coach Scott Rowling, Michael Sadon of veteran and rookie athletes City, Mexico FRONT L-R: Tomer Edry, Lior Zitershpiler, Flynn Turner, Shaira Fortuna, Moshe Shalchon, Jamie Hamilton, Tal Sheynfeld, Chris Reddan, looking forward to representing Bevan Rosenbloom. Team USA for the first time. July 28-August 7, 2019 15th European Maccabi Games Masters 45+ Soccer Tryouts Budapest, Hungary for the 2019 Pan American Maccabi Games took place July 28-29, 2018 at Westchester Community College in July 20-August 3, 2021* Valhalla, New York. The tryouts were Soccer athletes at the Masters 45+ tryouts 21st World Maccabiah Games organized by Masters 45+ Soccer Co- Israel Chairs Stefan Greenberg, Lee Popper, and Josh Warmund. Over 30 payers were in attendance and there was great camaraderie between alumni and new players. The inaugural took place in and around the city of May 2018 Raffle Winners International Maccabi Youth Games Haifa in Israel from July 22-August 2, 2018. Team USA brought a delegation of just over 200 team GRAND PRIZE – Scott Weiner members who were part of the 800+ participants from around the world, representing the USA SECOND PRIZE – Daryl Stern in 6 sport competitions. Team USA brought home gold, silver, and bronze medals in the different THIRD PRIZE – Goldberg Family competitions. Winners may choose from trips to the Masters Masters 55+ Soccer Tryouts for the 2019 Pan Golf Tournament, NCAA Final Four, Super Bowl, American Maccabi Games Hawaii, San Francisco, Broadway, and Israel, took place August 18-19, or other outstanding prizes or even cash. 2018 in Millburn, NJ. This is the first time Maccabi USA will be fielding a Interested in learning more Masters 55+ Soccer Team. The tryouts were organized Back L-R: Barry Waranch, Mark Wisnevitz, Steve Parker, Phil FIshel, about upcoming events by Masters 55+ Soccer Pierre Lotzof, Head Coach Eric Brief, Ira Disman, Rob Lazarus, Ian Grusd, and raffle tickets? Co-Chairs Ken Kramer and Ben Bressler, Jess Mogul, Ed Harris, Scott Agran, David Alhadeff, Jeff Cohn, Alec Mahrer, along with Gary Bernstein, Steve Goldenring, Jake Kent Front L-R: Alec Mahrer, Richard Shakter, Stuart Hochberger, Howard Glancy, Visit www.maccabiusa.com Head Coach Eric Brief. Daniel Indech, Brian Kronick, Don Kent, Scott Cohen, Simon Merlmelstein, Adam Nichols, Alan Berkowitz

Like Us On Follow Us On Follow Us On 4 | sportscene | Fall 2018 Get connected, stay engaged... Facebook Twitter Instagram Fund-A-Dream is a new initiative to provide Become a opportunities for young Jewish athletes to represent Team USA in Israel at the 21st World Maccabiah Dreammaker Games in 2021. Today!

Your tax-deductible gift of $1,800* per year (minimum of 4 years) will support the Maccabi USA Fund-A-Dream scholarship fund. Your gift will enable eligible Juniors, Youth, and Open athletes to participate in Israel Connect, our life changing, week-long cultural and educational program which precedes the start of the Maccabiah Games.

Please help us ensure that every qualifying athlete afforded the opportunity to participate as part of the largest gathering of Jews to compete and bond with other Jewish athletes from the United States and the Diaspora in Israel.

Dreammakers can designate their scholarship support for athletes competing in specific sports. All Dreammakers receive:

• Listing in each issue of our Sportscene Newsletter during the 4-year cycle

• Full Team USA apparel package for the Maccabiah Games

• Eligible to serve as a member of the Maccabi USA National Advisory Council

• Complimentary or reduced pricing for Maccabi USA annual meeting, and select programs and events in your local community

*Note: If selected to participate in the 2021 World Maccabiah Games as a Masters Athlete, your Fund-A-Dream contribution will fulfill your tax- deductible commitment.

Endowment Fund of Maccabi USA— Leave your Legacy today!

Establish a “named” Endowment Fund For information about becoming a in honor or memory of a family member, Dreammaker or establishing an endowment team, or teammate. Endowments may fund please contact: Please visit be earmarked to benefit a specific sport, bit.ly/FADMUSA experience, or activity of Maccabi USA. Shayna Weiss, Director of Development, to learn more! Naming opportunities start at $25,000. All Northeast Region [email protected] levels of support are appreciated. or 215 561-6900 x 4150

Fall 2018 | sportscene | 5 2018 MACCABI YOUTH GAMES Now that we’ve had time to reflect on this summer’s I am proud to have led the USA delegation in this great experience and Maccabi Youth Games, it is relatively easy to see cannot put into words what it was like seeing the beautiful faces of all who what a success it was and what a wonderful job participated in these Games. The highlights are too long to list, but I assure did in running this program. you, they occurred every day in both large events and smaller settings. When I think of the success, I am not only referring Reunions are already being planned and you can hear talk of when there will to the experience the USA delegation had, but also be another opportunity to participate in a Maccabi event. The preparation the organization as a whole. Maccabi World Union was worth the long hours and continuous effort to pull off the Games and brought 800 youth athletes from the Diaspora to it was rewarding to see the way these kids became part of the Magic of compete, travel, live, and learn alongside their Israeli Maccabi. I am looking forward to the Youth Games being a regular part of counterparts. This is a huge feat, because along with the kids came 800 the Maccabi calendar. parents to watch the games and enjoy Israel. These were the inaugural So again, thank you for this opportunity to chair such an incredible event, Games and there were 1,600 people in attendance. There were glowing and I wish everyone of you a Happy New Year! Chag Sameach! reports from spectators on how great the Games were. What the numbers and stats don’t show are the lifelong memories that were created and the friendships that were formed. The Games were a very powerful experience and the ripple effect was felt by our delegation’s families, friends, and communities throughout the world. Marc Backal USA Chair Maccabi Youth Games 2018

6 | sportscene | Fall 2018 2019 Pan Am Games I am filled with pride and Our sports chairs, coaches, volunteers, excitement to be the medical team, and Maccabi USA staff are Maccabi USA Chair for all working hard to make these 14th Pan Am the 14th Pan American Maccabi Games an experience of a lifetime Maccabi Games. for our athletes. Summer, July 2019 is around These Games will be the corner and we are all excited to compete. a culmination of all my Interested in participating please visit www. passions; sports, Jewish maccabiusa.com to apply. pride, cultural integration Sincerely, with other athletes, and Maccabi USA. We are bringing over 400 athletes, competing in 20 different sports to Mexico City. Not only will our athletes be competing at a very high Tonja Magerman level; they will be exposed to young Jewish Maccabi USA 14th Pan Am athletes from many other countries with whom Maccabi Games General Chair they can share this amazing athletic and cultural experience with. Maccabi USA Women’s Chair I have coached at previous Pan American Maccabi Games and seen the power of sport bring our young athletes together. They get the opportunity to view our culture and heritage from many different perspectives. They get to represent their country and march into Opening and Closing Ceremonies in red, white, and blue uniforms chanting “USA, USA!” These ceremonies are always special and spectacular. The pride that our athletes feel being a part of these Games and Ceremonies are typically highlights of the experience. 2019 We are about a year Budapest is one of the Europe’s most beautiful away from the European cities filled with a strong Jewish heritage. There games in Budapest and are many places to see and visit, including a our excitement is quickly Jewish quarter – located in the City Center –with growing. We have most a walking tour. Budapest is the capital of Hungary of our chairs appointed and is home to Europe’s largest synagogue, the for all our sports and are Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the now working on getting Great Synagogue; it is also the second largest our coaches in place so synagogue in the world. we can recruit our teams. We will have about 200 We are still recruiting athletes and coaches, if you athletes competing for medals on 16 teams. are interested in participating please visit www. I have some great people that are working with maccabiusa.com to apply for the 2019 European me to make this an exciting experience for Maccabi Games! everyone. My Vice Chairs are Stu Greenberg and Stacey Klimchuk. Stu has been involved with the Maccabiah Games since 2013, and Stacey is a two-time competitor in the Maccabiah Games. Stu served as the Paralympic Chair and Assistant Debbie Adams Coach for wheelchair basketball at the 19th and General Chair 2019 20th World Maccabiah Games in Israel and European Maccabi Games additionally oversaw Paralympic and table . He has said that it has been a great experience for him as far as gaining the love for Israel and making friends for a lifetime. Stacey played golf and won a silver medal during both the 2009 and . In fact, Stacey met her husband Aaron at the . She is extremely passionate about the Maccabi organization and is very excited to be involved. SpringFall 20152018 | sportscene | 57 Maccabi USA Legends Event

On December 9, 2018, Mike Hartman, 15th Maccabiah, NHL Stanley Cup Champion; Maccabi USA will be Jane Katz, 5th, 6th, 10th, 14th, 15th, 18th, 19th, 20th recognizing a new Maccabiah, 8th, 11th Pan Am, 13th Europe, US Olympian; class of the ‘Legends Tahl Leibovitz, 15th, 19th, 20th Maccabiah, US Paralympian; of the Maccabiah’ in the New York area. These individuals have distinguished themselves on the field of play and in their support Semyon Pinkhasov, 11th, 12th Maccabiah, US Olympian; of the Maccabi movement. Whether it was playing 134 caps for the Marc Rosenberg, 11th, 14th, 15th Maccabiah, 8th Pan Am, United States Men’s National Team, lifting a Stanley Cup, or giving Leadership; time, leadership, and resources across decades, these honorees Alfred Schoenfeld, Leadership; represent everything that makes Maccabi USA the ultimate synergy of Sam Sporn, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 17th, 18th, 19th Maccabiah, and sports. Anticipated honorees include: 5th, 8th, 10th, 11th Pan Am, Leadership; Lorraine Abramson (z”l), 6th, 7th, 9th Maccabiah; Alex Sternberg, 10th, 12th, 13th Maccabiah, Leadership; Richard Abramson (z”l), 6th & 7th Maccabiah; Stuart Weitzman, 18th, 19th, 20th Maccabiah; , 12th & 13th Maccabiah, Member US Men’s National Toni Wortman, Past President, Maccabi USA; Vice President, Soccer Team; Maccabi World Union; Steve Berliner, 14th, 15th, 17th, 20th Maccabiah, Maccabi USA Wally Wortman, Leadership; Leadership; Ethan Zohn, 15th Maccabiah, 10th Pan Am. Daniel Bukantz (z”l), 3rd Maccabiah, US Olympian; Join us on December 9, 2018 from 1:00 – 4:00PM at the New York Jeff Bukantz, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th Maccabiah, 13th Pan Am, Athletic Club in New York City as we celebrate the contributions of 14th Europe, President, Maccabi USA; these Legendary members of the Maccabi community. For information Ron Carner, Leadership, Past President, Maccabi USA; on tickets, event sponsorships, or e-journal acknowledgements contact Mim Chappell-Eber, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th Maccabiah, 8th, Dan Kurtz, Alumni Relations Director at [email protected] or 11th Pan AM, 13th Europe, 2006; (215) 561-6900 x 4158. LEGACY SOCIETY

We Build Jewish Pride Through Sports. Jewish continuity and support You can become a member of the Legacy Society in many different for the State of Israel are our ultimate goals and we achieve them ways, each offering financial and tax benefits. These include an outright through our unique programming and the life-changing experiences gift, a bequest in a will, an insurance policy, designation of a retirement we offer Jewish athletes of all ages. asset or IRA, and supporting foundations and private foundations. You can help ensure that we are always able to provide these Legacy Society gifts can be structured to benefit Maccabi USA experiences to future generations of Jewish athletes by joining and any program or initiative of the organization. So don’t wait, our Legacy Society. No matter your level of wealth, anyone can please consider joining the other members of the Legacy Society participate in the Legacy Society. It does not matter how you do it, to help ensure that Maccabi USA will continue to provide its unique only that you make a decision to do so. programming, providing life-changing experiences and building Jewish continuity in perpetuity. LEGACY SOCIETY MEMBERS

Hank Alpert Heidi and Ben Fox Donald Kent Claire A. and Alan Sherman Ellen and Si Atlas Gary Freedson Harvey Leff Taylor Hogge and Robert Spivak Robyn Barsky Marilyn Glaser Donald I. Levin Ellen and Sam Sporn Sandi and Jerry Bloomberg Joy and Gary Gordon Irv Levine z”l Louise and Bill Steerman Merri and Jay Blumenfeld Jennifer and Dan Greyber David Lowenthal Dana and Mark Susson Jerry Bornstein, MD Betsy Grossman Beth and Jed Margolis Harry Swimmer Ray Brenner Harvey Gutman Ilene and Mel Miller Frank Velie Jim Bronner Alan Hahn Harvey Morgan David Weissman Talia and Ron Carner Richard Hermann Jay Moses Steven Wertheim Douglas Erenberg Larry Hirsch John Paul Toni and Wally Wortman Susan and Leland Faust Marilyn Labkon Leonard Reifman z”l Libby Newman Feldman Jackie and Nat Levine Jeff Schulman Suzan and Karen Karper Ken Schwartz

For more information about becoming a member of the Legacy Society please contact David Snyder at [email protected].

8 | sportscene | Spring 2018 | Spring 2016 Donor Profile: Ondrea Schiciano

Hometown: Goldens , New York USA. When Ondrea’s mother died, she and her sister took over the School: Cornell University tournament to pay homage to their mother. Occupation: Co-Owner of Levitt Fuirst Insurance In addition to Maccabi USA, Ondrea is involved with The ALS Agency, Tarrytown, NY Association. The organization caters to individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and their caregivers. She became involved with the Maccabi USA Sport: Tennis organization after her mother passed away from the terrible disease Hobbies: Tennis, Needlepoint, and Traveling in 2013. Ondrea volunteers her time through events, walks, and also helps to support them financially. Maccabi USA is a family affair for Ondrea Schiciano whose father David competed as a member of Team USA at When asked why she continues to support Maccabi USA, Ondrea said, the 4th Pan American Maccabi Games in 1979 in Mexico City, Mexico. “bringing Jewish people together through sports allows for them to After having the time of his life at those Games, David decided to give build a stronger Jewish identity. Not only do they participate in elite of himself to Maccabi USA – athletically, financially, and in various level competition, but they also connect or re-connect to their Jewish leadership roles. He invested much of his time and energy with the heritage and religion. The organization is special to me because of the organization and instilled that connection to Maccabi USA in Ondrea connections my parents had, and now I feel those connections in my who accompanied him to the 6th Pan American Maccabi Games in immediate family as well.” Maccabi USA has been passed down from 1987 in Caracas, as well as a Maccabiah Games in Israel. generation to generation and she hopes her children will continue the tradition. Ondrea is serving as the Open & Masters Women’s Tennis After her father passed away, the 2009 Maccabiah Games tennis Chair for the 2019 European Maccabi Games in Budapest, Hungary. tryouts were held in his honor. This tribute allowed Ondrea to maintain her connection to Maccabi USA and she began to take over where her Ondrea and her husband Jason, a golfer, live in Goldens Bridge, NY father left off, leading her to try out and make the Masters team. The with their 15 year-old-son Logan, who shares his father’s interest in 2009 Maccabiah Games were her first experience without her father, golf, and daughter Hanna, 13, who shares her mother’s interest in but she vowed to hold onto his legacy throughout. She continued this tennis. Ondrea hopes that there will be an opportunity to experience at the 2015 European Maccabi Games in Berlin on the Masters tennis the Maccabiah Games as a family in the near future. team where she won a bronze medal in the singles competition. During this time, Ondrea’s mother Edythe began chairing the Westchester Brunch & Bridge Tournament, a fundraising tournament for Maccabi

Volunteer Profile: Devra & Phil Pulley Hometown: Huntingdon Valley, PA to date came for the 20th Games – more than 246 athletes for the Schools: Devra – Villanova Juniors, Open, and Masters divisions applied. University; Phil – Textile While the sport is important, Devra and Phil agree that is University merely a mechanism that brings Jewish athletes together. They continue Occupation: Real Estate, to list names of athletes and coaches they are still in touch with from Construction, and Recreation both sets of Games. The Pulleys give advice to parents of Juniors participants who are looking to send their athletes to play in college Maccabi USA Sport: Ice Hockey and beyond; they work with leadership across the world; and they have Hobbies: Devra – Knitting; developed relationships with Israeli hockey players from the National Phil – Scuba Diving; Together – Team, many of whom have come to live with them in the States. Boating & Ice Hockey There’s a feeling of inclusiveness and becoming part of the family when In 2009, Devra and Phil were you spend time with Devra and Phil. They serve as support systems in Israel for the . Their son Ben was part of the both during and after the Games. They are passionate people who live USA delegation to Israel participating in ice hockey. While these their lives connecting with others to help benefit individuals’ lives. When competitions were taking place in Metula, the 18th Maccabiah Games asked why they continue to give of themselves for Maccabi USA both were taking place in all other parts of Israel. When the Games ended, unanimously agree, “there is no experience like the Maccabiah Games. the Pulleys went to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv where they discovered the The Games embrace the as well as provide athletes with Maccabiah Games. The athletic sights amazed them, and they were a competitive atmosphere, all while allowing them to compete wearing eager to be part of the magic. As avid members of the ice hockey their country’s colors. The Games are the one place every four years community, they decided to get involved with Maccabi USA following where everyone can be him or herself regardless of religious affiliation. the 18th Games and have been the Overall Chairs of the ice hockey They are a lot of work, but we love every second of it!” program for the 19th and 20th World Maccabiah Games. Devra and Phil live in Huntingdon Valley, PA with their two dogs and Prior to Devra and Phil taking the reins of leadership for the ice hockey two cats. They have three children, Sami, who is a Games Assistant program, the ice hockey competition had only taken place once before at the Maccabi USA Office; Ben who was a member of the 2013 and in 1997 at the 15th Maccabiah Games. It was no easy task to convince 2017 Open Men’s Ice Hockey Teams; and Gabriella, who lives in New athletes that, yes, there is a rink in Israel. The biggest applicant pool York City.

SpringFall 20152018 | sportscene | 59 news STEFANIE ALPERT – 2013 Maccabiah LELAND FAUST – 1965, 1973, 2005 Maccabiah SETH ROLAND – 1977-1997, Games, 2015 Pan American Maccabi Games, 2003-2021 Board – came in first place 2009 Maccabiah Games – Games – will join Kiryat Ata in his age division at the Olympic Distance was inducted into the Volleyball Club in Haifa, Israel as part of the USA Triathlon regional William & Mary Athletics and begin her professional championship at the California Triathlon on Hall of Fame on March volleyball career September 2018. June 24, 2018. 24, 2018. LAUREN BATTISTA – 2013 HOWARD FIDLER – 2017 Maccabiah MAIJA ROSES – 2017 Maccabiah Maccabiah Games – was named Games – was inducted into the Games – named a Scholar All- Assistant Coach of the Tufts South Plainfield High School Hall American by the College of University Woman’s Basketball of Fame. Swimming & Diving Coaches Team. Association of America ROGER GLAZER – 1993 at University of California- TARA BERGER – 2013-, 1995 Pan Berkeley. Maccabiah Games – and HANNAH American Maccabi Games – FOX – 2017 Maccabiah Games was elected into the Nassau TODD RUBINSTEIN – 2017 – were named first team All County High School Athletics Maccabiah Games – was honored American (D2 and D3) for the Hall of Fame on September as the 2017-2018 USPTA 2017-2018 Basketball Season 27, 2017 for his work as a National High School Tennis by the Jewish Sports Review. Basketball Referee. Coach of the Year. – 2005 – 1969 Maccabiah Games – Maccabiah Games – has recently top-ranked female tennis star and one of MARK SACK – 2001- – is signed to play with FC Maccabi the World’s Top Ten Women’s Single Players recognized as a member of the 2018 Class Netanya in Israel. Maccabi published her first book Driven: A Daughter’s of “Difference Makers” in the Cleveland Netanya is part of the Israeli Premier League. Odyssey in August 2018. Jewish community.

JEFF BUKANTZ – 1981-1993 RYAN JONES – 2013-2017 SCHILIT – 2005, 2013-2017 Maccabiah, 2015 Pan American Maccabiah Games - was named Maccabiah Games - was named the Maccabi Games, 2015 European Assistant Women’s Soccer Assistant Cross Country/Track & Maccabi Games, 2017 Maccabiah, Coach at Murray State Field Coach at Emory University. Games Organizing Committee 1993- University in Murray, Kentucky. 2017, Board 1994-2017, Maccabi ANYA WEINRIEB – 2018 USA President 2017-2021 will receive the Dr. NADINE NETTER LEVY – 1965, 1985, 1997 Maccabi Youth Games – will Bruno Lambert Good Guy in Sports Award on Maccabiah Games - was inducted into the join the U16 Soccer Israeli April 28, 2019. tennis Hall of Fame in New York on April 28, National Team Fall of 2018. 2018. ELI DERSHWITZ – 2017 Maccabiah Games – was named The Jay Fiedler Outstanding Jewish Male SAMUEL “KANE” WITTORFF – College Athlete of the 2017 Maccabiah Games – will join Year by the Jewish Sports Maccabi Tel Aviv and begin Heritage Association, Inc; his professional volleyball won the Silver Medal at the 2018 World career September 2018. Championships in Wuxi, , and is officially BRUCE PEARL – 2009 Maccabiah ranked the #1 Sabre Fencer in the world. Games – named the 2018 STAFF UPDATE: SHAYNA WEISS Red Auerbach National Coach – joined Maccabi USA in B.J. DUNNE – 2015 of the Year on March 31, August 2018 as the Director European Maccabi Games – 2018 by the Jewish Coaches of Development, Northeast was named Head Men’s Association (JCA). Region. She competed as Basketball Coach at member of the Open Gettysburg College. JAKE RIVERA – 2017 Team at the 2011 European Maccabiah Games – married Maccabi Games. Prior to joining the Maccabi DREW EDELMAN – 2013-2017 Taylor Bacon (now Rivera) USA team, Shayna worked in development at Maccabiah Games – signed a on August 18, 2018. the largest local philanthropy, UJA-Federation one-year contract with the of New York. Israeli basketball team Ramat HaSharon, a Division I Team in Ramat HaSharon, Israel. We want to hear from you! Please forward all exciting news to Dakota Marine at [email protected] 10 | sportscene | Spring 2018 Welcome to our MACCABABIES!

AMIT ZIV – 2017 Maccabiah Games MATT SUSSON – 2007 Pan American JESSICA CHADWIN HOEPFL – 2017 LELAND FAUST – 1973, 2005 – and wife JILL ZIV welcomed their Games, 2009 Maccabiah Games, Maccabiah Games – and husband Maccabiah Games, 2003-2021 Board – first child –Jacob Asher Ziv on 2017-2019 Board – and wife MONICA ROBERT HOEPFL welcomed their and wife SUSAN FAUST welcomed February 1, 2018. SUSSON welcomed their first child first child –Grayson Chadwin their first grandchild,Maya Taylor – Mae Louise Susson on February Hoepfl on March 31, 2018. Proud Faust on April 13, 2018 at 6lbs/14 15, 2018. Proud grandparents are Grandparents are STEVE CHADWIN oz. Maya is the daughter of JEREMY DANA and MARK SUSSON, both – 2000 Pan American Maccabi Games and KATE FAUST. Board Members of Maccabi USA. – and SHERREA CHADWIN – 2017 Maccabiah Games – and Uncle JAMIE CHADWIN – 2013 Maccabiah Games – and aunt RACHEL SILVERBERG CHADWIN.

SARAH LEVINE – 2007 Pan American RIFKY OBSTFELD – 2017 Maccabiah SUMMER RUNESTAD – 2007 Pan MICHAEL ERUSH – 2005-2009 Maccabi Games, 2009-2013 Maccabiah Games – and husband NATAN American Maccabi Games, 2009-2017 Maccabiah Games, 2010 Maccabi Games – and husband MAX LEVINE OBSTFELD welcomed their first Maccabiah Games, 2017-2019 Board Australia Games, 2015 Pan American – 2009-2013 Maccabiah welcomed daughter, Morgan Elizabeth Obstfeld – and husband TONY RUNESTAD Maccabi Games, 2017 Maccabiah their first childAri Makai Levine on May 7, 2018. Big brothers welcomed their daughter, Samari Games – and wife ALEXANDRA on April 20, 2018. He is named Jasper and Oliver are happy to have Rae Runestad on May 13, 2018. SIEGEL ERUSH welcomed their for his great grandfathers AL a sister! daughter, Lea Elizabeth Erush on LEVINE and MARTIN SUSSON. Proud August 10, 2018. She is already grandparents are DAN and MARK looking forward to being a member SUSSON, both Board Members of of a future Maccabi competition for Maccabi USA. Team USA.

We mourn the passing...

IRVING LEVINE DENNIS SHIELDS 1937-1993 Maccabiah, 1995 Pan American Maccabi Games, Board Member 2003 – died on August 10, 2018 at the age of 51. He was 1994-2018 – died on May 5, 2018 at the age of 96. He was a top ranked tennis a member of the Masters 35+ Soccer Team and was a participant at many of player both in New England and nationally in his age group. He was inducted into our fundraising events. He will be missed dearly. The New England Tennis Hall of Fame in 1998 for his contributions to the sport of tennis both on and off the court.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families. May their memories be a blessing.

To share birth, wedding announcements, and other Simchas please email Dakota Marine at [email protected] Spring 2018 | sportscene | 11 United States Committee Non-Profit Org. Sports for Israel US Postage 1511 Walnut Street, Suite 401 PAID Philadelphia, PA 19102 Permit No. 1291 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Philadelphia, PA President Jeff Bukantz Executive Director David Snyder Communications Director Dakota Marine Design The Kiva Group JOIN OUR 1511 Walnut St., Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19102 EMAIL LIST 215.561.6900 Fax: 215.561.5470 [email protected] www.maccabiusa.com ©2009 Maccabi USA Maccabi USA is a Registered Trademark Since 1948, Maccabi USA (MUSA) has sought to enrich the lives of Jews in the United States, Israel and throughout the Diaspora through athletic, cultural and educational programs. The organization is the sponsor of the U.S. Team to the World Maccabiah Games. MUSA also sponsors U.S. participation in Maccabi competitions in Pan America and Europe, and supports Jewish youth through the JCC Maccabi Games.

21ST MACCABIAH FUND A DREAM ($1,800 a year for 4 years) as of August 17, 2018

Ron Bartusiak Jeff Cohn (A) Stu Hockberger (A) Rob Olin (A) Hannah (A), Mark & Betsy Berman Drs. Gaby & Danny Cosgrove (A) Don Kent (A) Scott Schaffer (A) Ross Berman (A) Ben Fox (A) Marc Lebowitz (A) Sherman Family & HP Binstock Family (A) Stefan Greenberg (A) John Levene (A) Mr. & Mrs. Mark Willner (A)

21ST MACCABIAH CONTRIBUTIONS (Gifts over $5,000) as of August 17, 2018

Debbie (A) & Anthony Adams Susan & Leland (A) Faust Betty & Charles Lebovitz Emily & David Pottruck (A) TSG Reporting Inc. Alex Blavatnik (A)** Kantor/Knue Families ** Tonja & Joel Magerman Aileen & Brian (A) Roberts (IC) Stuart Weitzman Family Foundation (A) Lisa & Doug Goldman Fund Wendy & Jeff Krieger (A) Budd & Nanette Mayer Family Foundation Silk Family Foundation (A)**

MACCABI USA/SPORTS FOR ISRAEL ENDOWMENTS as of August 17, 2018 PATRONS • Level $1,000,000+ Selig Zises & Ellyn Bank (A) Barbara & Jim (A) Bronner Doris Dannenhirsch Beshunsky (A) (z”l) Jan & Jay (A) Moses Aileen & Brian (A) Roberts 16th & 17th U.S. Maccabiah Teams Marilyn & Simon Denenberg Borden Family In Honor of Carly & Erica Novich Ellen (A) & Samuel (A) Sporn (IC) The Fraenkel Family Foundation Jeffrey Bukantz (A) Randolph & Judith Pace Foundation GIBORIM Stuart Weitzman Family Foundation (A) Doris & Sheldon (A) (z”l) Gitman Ralph Chernin & Family Muriel & Ed Pickard Level $50,000+ Joy & Gary (A) Gordon Linda & Jeffrey Chodorow Bernard Pomerantz Memorial Fund CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Sandi & Jerry Bloomberg Ira Kamens Marcia & Sheldon Cloobeck The Pressman & Friends Group Level $180,000+ The Chaskin Family Jean & Stephen Kaplan Sophie & Albert Crome Anne & Harry J. Reicher Foundation Kerry & Alan Appelbaum (A) Florence & Michael Edelstein Stanley Kleckner (A) Steven Damashek Memorial Fund Linda Rice Benjamin Frankel Fund Talia & Ron Carner Marilyn & Mark Labkon Family Endowment Lynn & Carl (z”l) Goldstein Miriam & Harvey Diamond Rochester Chapter Maccabi USA Leah & Ed Frankel Carol (z”l) & Harvey (A) Leff Mark S. & Marty Goldstein Leo Eisner Louise & Claude (A) Rosenberg Keith Frankel (A) Jon (A), Kelly, Kenton & Ashlyn Levin Shirlee & Bill (A) (z”l) Jacobs Field-Krasnoff Nina & Robert Rosenthal Monica & Barry Gurland Cissie & Robert Levy Donna & Jeffrey (A) Laikind Freidin-Ziman Judith & Ben (A) Rubin Iris & Igal Hami Sydney Levy Memorial Ilene & Melvyn Miller Rhona & David Furman Neal Rudder Edy (z”l) & V. David (A) (z”l) Levitt Ronnie & David Lowenthal Robert Pincus (A) & Family Gittleson Family Endowment Salter/Praw Phyllis Magerman (z”l) B’nai Mitzvah Tonja & Joel Magerman Estherly & Leonard (A)(z”l) Reifman Richard Goldman Memorial Fund Salter Family Trust Endowment Michael L. Magerman Family Barbara Brizdle (A) & Larry Schoenberg (A) Rita & Marvin Goldstein Toby & Michael Salter Joy & Jerry Monkarsh Beth & Jed (A) Margolis Janet & Ellis (z”l) Shore Edward Gottlieb Memorial Fund Naomi & Dolph (z”l) Schayes Taylor Hogge & Robert E. Spivak Ava, Edward & Jordan (A) Mendelson Jill & Stu (A) Siegel Dennis (A), Marc & Steve Needleman Zachary Hahn Memorial Fund Wendy & Dan (A) Schayes PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE Harry & Beatrice Sley Foundation/Betsy Bernard Osher Foundation Benjamin Joseph Hahn Memorial Fund In Memory of Arthur & Edith Selverstone Level $100,000+ Grossman The Pincus Charitable Fund (A) Bettina & Izzy (A) Horowitz Nancy & James Shalek Sarah & Robert Cohn Diane & David Stern The Rabinovitch Foundation (A) Laura & Richard (z”l) Horowitz Sharrow Memorial Fund Cecile (z”l) & Allan Dalfen Marilyn & Harry Swimmer May & Samuel Rudin Foundation Barbara & George Hyman Jason Shrinsky Cecile & Lester (z”l) Fein Silverstein Family Leslie & David (A) Kantor Sidney Margolis Memorial Endowment Suzan & Allen Fox ISRAEL SPORTS AMBASSADOR Dana & Mark Susson Susan & Robert Klein Siegfried Family Mark S. Goldstein & the Jean Alenstein Level $25,000+ Wertheim Family Endowment Sondra & Herbert Kupersmith Charles Simon Trust Jan Albert (A) Family Golf Endowment Ellen & Simon Atlas Carole & Robert Landau Rhea & Edward Slade Kantor (A)/Knue (A) Family ENDOWMENT • Level Under $25,000 Cathy & Marc (A) Backal Scott, Jan, Morgan & Skylar Lane Edward M. Slater Memorial Fund Phyllis (z”l) & Alan Magerman Anonymous Gladys & Lewis (A) Bass & Family Dan Levenson Louise & William Steerman Amy & Alan Meltzer The Abramson Family Foundation Susan & Harvey Morgan Endowment Jeanie & Armand Lindenbaum Tanner Tananbaum Jean R. Alenstein Trust The Sheldon Family (A) Jerome Bornstein (A) & Morris & Rose Mark J. Rosenberg Memorial Fund Ruth & Howard (z”l) Walzer Gerry & Hank Alpert Dr. Lee Winston & Herman Silver Charitable Bornstein Memorial Fund Tema & Joseph Merback Patricia & Philip Wexler Arlene & Richard (z”l) Batchley Fund/Sam Rabinowitz (z”l) The Peter Brand Foundation (A) Milken Family Foundation Ira & Shirley Yohalem Endowment Berlin Family Foundation Inc. Toni & Wally Wortman Ruth & Ray Brenner June & Sidney Moray Deborah Miller & William Zabel (A)

(A) Athlete | (IC) ISRAEL CONNECT | **Sponsored two athletes ($6,000 per athlete)