VOLUME 14 | NUMBER 2 | FALL 2016 THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF MACCABI USA

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE “I was a very competitive golfer growing up 2 Dan and won a lot of big events,” said Dan. “I THE MAGIC OF THE MACCABIAH 3 Frankel don’t remember anything as vividly as I remember winning the Qualifier in 2004. 20TH MACCABIAH LAUNCH GALA first picked up a golf What a big moment in my golf career, and 4 club as a two-year old. RECENT EVENTS subsequently my life.” His father, Van, would UPCOMING EVENTS 5 bring Dan with him Dan describes the most special moment of MACCABI MATCH to his lessons and his life as occuring on a golf course at the 6 noticed something 2005 World . His dad, VOLUNTEER AND DONOR PROFILES 8 interesting about his behavior. He would who started and nurtured Dan’s love for the mimic his dad’s every move, including sport, acted as his caddy throughout the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE 9 swinging a phantom golf club. “I’ll never entire tournament at Caesarea in Israel. “My forget,” remarked Dan. “My dad turned dad and I have a very special relationship,” NEWS 10 around, broke his 3-wood in half, duct-taped Dan explained. “He caddied for me for 72 the shaft, and put a Bugs Bunny head cover holes in Israel. After sinking my putt on the on it. The moment I put that club in my 18th hole in the final round, we shared an hands, I was hooked.” That moment marks unforgettable hug. I was on my way to college

INSIDE THIS ISSUE THIS INSIDE the beginning of Dan’s lifelong journey with after the Games, so spending that time with Golf. him in Israel will always be priceless.” In the early 2000s, Dan was a fixture on After the 2005 Maccabiah, Dan attended the Professional Golf Association (PGA) Rhodes College in Memphis, TN, where he Junior Golf circuit. He played in and won majored in Music and Religious Studies and countless tournaments and was named also played on their Golf team, qualifying for the Metropolitan PGA Player of the Year the NCAA DIII Golf Tournament twice. Every three years consecutively, from 2000- summer, he interned for the Metropolitan 2002. In 2004 Dan was approached by Jeff PGA, taking off some time to attend the Fleishman and Alan Sherman, the Team Maccabi Australia International Games in USA Golf Co-Chairs for the 17th World 2006, where he won a team silver medal. Maccabiah Games, to try out for Maccabi Upon graduation, The Metropolitan PGA USA’s Juniors Golf team by golfing at the offered Dan a full-time position and today he Qualifier in North Carolina. is their Director of Junior Golf. Dan had a difficult decision to make; either participate in the JCC Maccabi Games, where he had previously competed at three “I don’t remember anything as Games, or qualify for the Maccabi USA Juniors Golf Team. He chose the Qualifier vividly as I remember winning and shot between 76 and 78 for all three the Qualifier in 2004.” rounds, culminating in a tournament victory.

(continued on page 2) Dan Frankel PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE (continued from front page) Considered by many in his industry as the Over the summer I had the chance to reflect on the power “Guru of Junior Golf,” Dan was appointed and impact that the Maccabiah Games make on our athletes, as the Head Coach for Team USA’s Juniors our volunteers, on the State of Israel, and on the worldwide Jewish Community. What started as the vision of a young Golf team for the 2013 World Maccabiah 15-year-old, Yosef Yekutieli, has grown to become the third Games, winning a team silver with the boys largest international sports competition in the world today. I and a team gold with the girls. At the end marvel at and am appreciative of the thousands of hours that of these Games, Dan had the opportunity our volunteers put in for the greater good of our athletes, as to utilize his amazing singing voice. “I was we provide life-changing experiences for our Team members given the honor of singing Hatikvah at the ranging in age from 15-85. Next summer, over 9,000 athletes Golf Closing Ceremony,” Dan reminisced. from 75+ nations will march into Teddy in Jerusalem “To combine my three biggest passions in in front of 40,000 people in the stands, being viewed by life — golf, singing and Israel — into one millions in Israel and around the globe. It will be a powerful moment that will remain in and sing the Israeli national anthem in front their hearts forever. Creating positive Jewish memories is a testament to what we do of 700 people is what I often think about best, and have been doing for over 80 years. With growing anti-Semitism worldwide, this when I reminisce about my Maccabiah is our response — a stronger “next generation” that is proud to be Jewish. We never stop believing in our uniqueness and the strength of our identity as — the same points experiences.” that outsiders might condemn us for. He returned as a volunteer with Maccabi USA for the 2015 Pan American Maccabi Through our work at Maccabi USA we prove time and again that we are bonded. We are Games, as the Overall Head Coach and committed to bring our young into the fold in order that they, too, can share that connection Chairman for Team USA’s Golf teams in to both our past and our future. And we demonstrate to the world who we truly are — honorable, proud and strong people. Rather than be cowed by a misperception and lies Santiago, Chile. “I take great pride in the about us, we put our best face forward in order that the world can see what Jews are made fact that our team, ranging in ages from 15- of. Sport is our means to accomplish that. 75, coalesced into one giant Maccabi family in such a short period of time,” Dan said. At a time when routine religious practices are becoming the focus of fewer Jews, as He hopes to replicate this feeling for the fast-changing realities lure our younger generation to spread its wings into fields never Golf team for the 2017 World Maccabiah before known, we pull them back through sports. No other interest can physically bring Games in his role as Team USA’s Overall together so many people as do sports competitions. Once physically with us, we take Golf Co-Chair. the opportunity to expose their hearts and minds to the great spirit of the Jewish people and the miracle of the State of Israel. We return to each athlete a piece of themselves It’s safe to say that Dan loves Maccabi he or she hadn’t known was missing. The educational impact of putting Jewish athletes USA. “I will beg, borrow and steal for the from diverse nations together is enormous — and powerful. The opportunity to compete organization,” laughs Dan. “I can’t give with other Jews in their sport creates the backdrop for the sense of our people — their back enough to Maccabi USA for the life- similarities and their closeness across international boundaries. changing experiences and opportunities I have been associated with this brilliant concept and its organization for the past 30 I have had through their projects and years and I still get excited when I am told by athletes — past or present alumni — that programs. I have formed some of my the Maccabiah was “one of the greatest experiences in my life” or “was a life-changing closest relationships with the people I met experience.” Recently a Masters player said to me that the Maccabiah was through Maccabi USA, and will cherish the the “highlight of my life.” Indeed, the Maccabiah Games are a life-altering event for memories I have of all the Games I’ve been the athletes, supporters and volunteers. It is a transformative experience that gives a part of for the rest of my life.” the participants a new perspective of themselves — as athletes, as Americans and as Jews. While it reinforces the centrality of Israel to Jewish security and pride, it is also an emotional journey in which many lifelong friendships are formed. What starts as a fun-filled competitive sports event turns into a journey of discovery, friendship, Jewish awareness and pride. Athletes who just happen to be Jewish, return home as proud Jewish athletes.

Next year in Jerusalem!!!

Sincerely,

Ron Carner, President Maccabi USA 2 | sportscene | Fall 2016 THE MAGIC OF THE MACCABIAH! JOIN US IN ISRAEL FOR THE MACCABIAH GAMES

One of the greatest ways to enjoy the beauty of Israel and her people All Mission programs include tickets to Opening and Closing is through the Maccabiah Games. Whether as an athlete, spectator Ceremonies, touring, special parties and events, services of a or volunteer you will be part of the 9,000+ international Maccabi dedicated hospitality desk staffed by Maccabi USA personnel and family gathered in Israel because of a shared love of sport. We have travel specialists, and transportation to sporting competitions. multiple options for you to join us in Israel July 4–18, 2017. Participation in the Mission is the easiest way to experience the First and foremost, if you are an athlete and want to compete Maccabiah Games, develop lifelong friendships and become in the world’s third largest international sporting event, visit immersed in all things Maccabi. our website and fill out an application to begin the process of Lastly, you can consider being a volunteer for Team USA in Israel. qualifying to participate in the Games as a member of Team USA. There are opportunities to be an accommodations manager or If you are a family member or friend of an athlete, or just a general medical manager. This is another way to become part of Team USA sports fan, join us on our Maccabi USA Maccabiah Mission, July and experience Israel and its beauty alongside your teammates. 4–17, 2017 in Israel. We will have multiple programming options, To apply to be an athlete or volunteer, visit our website at including a shorter Jerusalem Only option from July 4-9. All the www.maccabiusa.com and fill out an application for your sport or Mission programs will begin in Jerusalem where the Opening volunteer position. To join the Maccabi USA Mission, please contact Ceremony will take place on July 6. Because the competitions will either Sara Feinstein at 267.627.5654 at Maccabi USA or Samantha take place all over the country, we will have three Mission Hubs Sultzer at 215.568.6655 x380 at Gil Travel for more details. beginning on July 9 — Jerusalem, and . No matter how you join us in Israel next year, we look forward to sharing Shabbat with you in the land of our ancestors!

SpringFall 2016 | sportscene | 3 Event Steering Committee

Steve Berliner John Levene Jeff Bukantz Tomm Miller Cheryl Carner Harvey Morgan Leland Faust Donna Orender th Arnold Fielkow Joel Roodyn 20 Maccabiah Launch Gala Eden Goldberg Marc Rosenberg Honoring Debra Halpert Andrew Sagliocca Harvey Hirschfeld Dennis Shields Maccabi USA President Donald Kent Melissa Carner Simon Walter Klores Bob Spivak RON CARNER Mark Knue Sam Sporn Lance Laifer Martha Weinstein-Alpert Maccabi USA’s official fundraising Many dedicated volunteers campaign was launched at a Gala worked tirelessly for over a year- on April 20 at Gotham Hall in New and-a-half to make this evening York City. President Ron Carner the success that it was. There was the honoree and over 350 was entertainment from the people gathered for a great night Maccabeats and the Master of camaraderie with new and old of Ceremony was Bruce Beck. Gratefully Acknowledges the friends. Maccabiah, Pan Am and Special guests, Prime Minister Generosity of its Sponsors European Maccabi Games alumni via video gathered alongside friends, family, and Consul General of Israel Ido PLATINUM SPONSORS sponsors and supporters to help Maccabi Aharoni, shared remarks with the crowd. Alumni Talia and Ron Carner USA raise close to $600,000 that evening. All Sara Odell – Squash – and Olympian Lenny Susan and Harvey Morgan proceeds from the event will be used to help Krayzelburg – Swimming – shared the impact ensure that all qualified Jewish athletes from of their experiences. It was a great opportunity the USA and around the world will have the for Maccabi USA to share the Magic of the GOLD SPONSORS opportunity to participate in the 2017 World Maccabiah with its audience. Blavatnik Family Foundation Maccabiah Games in Israel next July. Esquire Bank LawCash Sokolove Law Taylor Hogge and Bob Spivak Stuart Weitzman

SILVER SPONSORS “Anonymous” Stephanie Fein The Fraenkel Family Foundation Donald Kent, Jake Kent and Ellen Goosenberg Kent Amy and Marc Rosenberg Steven Sall and Family Seed the Dream Send Word Now Carolyn Ballan Wasserman and David Wassermann

BRONZE SPONSORS Gil Travel Group Emily White and Walter Klores Valerie Levitt and Ondrea Levitt Schiciano Tonja and Joel Magerman NBA Cares 4 | sportscene | Fall 2016 photo credit Todd Shapera recent events upcoming The 21st The Dolph Schayes Memorial Golf Annual Tournament took place on June 6 at Woodcrest events Palm Country Club in Cherry Hill, NJ. Formerly known as Beach Golf the Annual Golf Tournament the outing has been renamed in memory of Dolph Schayes. Tournament The Steering Committee Co-Chairs, Bob Spivak took place and Marc Zumoff, along with Tournament Directors September 25, 2016 at The Falls Bruce Apple, Larry Burns and KC Isdaner helped in Lake Worth, FL on March 14. The Tournament attract a large field of almost 100 golfers. Special 12th Annual Westchester Brunch & Co-Chairmen, Lou Shook and Bob Spivak, along thanks to Steering Committee members Louis Bridge/Canasta/Mah Jongg Event with the Steering Committee of Alan Appelbaum, Barson, Mark Edfort, David Lorry, Bruce Marks, Jon Rye Brook, NY Nancy-Jo Feinberg, Daniel Frankel, Gary Freedson, Miller, Mel Miller, Ross Miller, Mark Rabinowitz, Mark Goldstein, Larry Leff and Marty Riger helped Michael Spivak and Merrick Wetzler for all of their make this event a great success. Local athlete help. Local athlete Marlee Ehrlich spoke to the Melissa Perlman spoke to the group about her group about her Maccabiah experience and its December 9-11, 2016 Maccabiah experience. Next year’s event will be on impact. Next year’s tournament will take place on Maccabi USA Annual Conference March 20 at The Falls. June 12 at Woodcrest Country Club. Newark, NJ Maccabi Young Leadership organized Bubble Ball Soccer in conjunction March 2-7, 2017 with The Collaborative on Plenum April 14, 2016 at Palumbo Israel Recreation Center in Philadelphia, PA. Roughly 50 people participated in this crazy version of soccer. All funds raised from the event will be used March 20, 2017 L-R: Steve Goldsmith, Harvey Leff, Joel Magerman, Mark Susson to help provide the opportunity for qualified athletes 22nd Annual Palm Beach from the lost Jewish community of Ecuador to Golf Tournament attend the 2017 World Maccabiah Games. Lake Worth, FL The 2016 Chicago Golf Tournament The 20th Maccabiah Launch was held at Glencoe Country Club in Skokie, IL Gala honoring Ron Carner on August 8, 2016. After the tournament, Mark took place on April 20, 2016 at Fishman and Jeff “Tuba” Rubin were presented June 12, 2017 Gotham Hall in City. with Volunteer Appreciation Awards for their Dolph Schayes Memorial Please see Page 4 for more hard work and dedication in making this such a Golf Tournament details. great event over the last nine years. We thank the tournament co-chairs, Fred Cohen and Mark Cherry Hill, NJ The Maccabi World Union Plenum took Fishman, along with Steering Committee members place in Israel from May 19-24. There were two Arnie Fielkow, Jess Forrest, Gary Frank, William dozen Maccabi USA members in attendance, Furie, Terry Markus, Howard Polk, Jeff “Tuba” July 4, 2017 including seven members of Maccabi Young Rubin, Ron Saslow, Bob Spivak, Ellen Topel and International Maccabi Leadership (MYL) who attended an Annual Youth Adam Winick. Leadership Seminar. Everyone was hard at work Culinary Competition with planning for the 20th World Maccabiah Tel Aviv, Israel Games next July.

The 20th World Maccabiah July 4-18, 2017 Games 2017 Maccabiah Games Organizing Israel Committee Meeting took L-R: Fred Cohen, Joe Padorr, Danny Wojtowicz, Howard Polk, place in Mount Laurel, NJ on June 5, 2016. The John Looby, Mark Fishman meeting was attended by Maccabi USA’s Executive Photo credit Rebecca Lynn Nolte Committee and many of the individual sports chairmen for the 2017 World Maccabiah Games. Discussions included an overview of the 20th World Maccabiah Games, communications strategies for teams, the ISRAEL CONNECT program, the Maccabi USA Mission program, Yachad Relief, Security/ Get connected, stay engaged... Medical, and Lev L’Lev. Like Us On Follow Us On Follow Us On Facebook Twitter Instagram Fall 20152016 | sportscene | 5 MACCABI MATCH! Part of our Mission at Maccabi USA is to build Jewish Continuity, and we can think of no greater way to do this than when our athletes meet their life partners while participating in an international Maccabi or Maccabiah Games. As part of our series, MACCABI MATCH, we introduce you to couples who first met during Maccabiah and Pan American Maccabi Games.

INESSA AND GENE EYDELMAN Russian to her.” Inessa said, “I was in Israel with my father who was playing Masters Tennis. He implored me to practice my English, and here comes this guy in a USA jacket, and he is speaking Russian perfectly to me!” The Opening Ceremony was about to begin, and countries were being told to line up in anticipation of entering Teddy Stadium. Upon hearing the announcement blare from the loudspeaker, Gene asked for Inessa’s contact information, and she happily gave him her Facebook account information. Gene was the Open Judo Team’s Captain and he won a Team bronze medal and an individual bronze medal in the Open Men’s over 90kg division. After his competition was over he reached out to Inessa via Facebook, asking her on a date to explore Tel Aviv. Gene picked her up from Kfar Maccabiah in Ramat Gan to take her to Old Jaffa. After spending the day in Old Jaffa, traversing the city and eating ice cream, they knew they had to see one another again. A few days later, a smitten Gene drove to Jerusalem the day Inessa was leaving to say a quick goodbye. “I knew I needed to see her again, and made her promise me that we would Skype,” Gene laughed. Inessa flew back to Russia and Gene to his hometown of Chicago. By his own admission, Gene Eydelman attended the 2013 World After the Games, Skype sessions occurred on an almost daily basis. Maccabiah Games, his third Maccabiot, hoping to meet someone In September 2013, Inessa was on a plane to Chicago. “It was my special. Little did he know that the woman he would eventually first time going to the ,” recalls Inessa. “I felt every meet, marry and have a child with would not be a member of Team emotion possible, but I needed to see Gene in person again.” She USA, but a member of Team Russia. Ironically, Inessa Eydelman, stayed for two weeks, and was back the next month. Fast forward to participating in her first World Maccabiah Games as a Manager/ Valentine’s Day 2014, and Inessa was back again. “I told my family Liaison for Team Russia, did not travel to Israel with the intention of to gather at my favorite Italian restaurant in Chicago, but they didn’t finding someone special. know why,” said Gene. “I proposed to her at my house, and then we went to the restaurant to celebrate.” Inessa chimes in, “I had ZERO Athletes from every country have time to mingle with one another idea he was proposing, but I’m obviously very glad that he did!” prior to the start of the Opening Ceremony at the World Maccabiah Games. Many of the athletes utilize this time to trade their apparel “I am grateful to the Maccabiah Games for allowing me to be a proud and swag with athletes from other countries and Gene used this Jewish athlete and introducing me to my wife,” Gene concluded. “To time to try and find that special someone. me, one of the main points of the World Maccabiah Games and Maccabi USA is to unify Jews from all over the world. Inessa and I Gene was born in Minsk, Russia and his parents relocated to the are prime examples of that mission succeeding.” United States when he was very young. They continued to speak Russian in their home, leaving Gene bilingual. “I remember walking Inessa and Gene currently reside in Chicago with their daughter, around outside of Teddy Stadium and seeing this beautiful woman Milana Dora, who was named after Inessa’s grandmother Mila and dressed in Team Russia gear struggling to use her Israeli phone,” Gene’s grandmother Ana. remembers Gene. “I approached her, speaking Russian of course. You can imagine the surprised look on Inessa’s face when she turned around and realized an American was speaking fluent

6 | sportscene | Fall 2016 HEATHER (KAUFMAN) AND AVI RASOWSKY Heather and Avi Rasowsky were just 16 years old when they first met course I said yes!” Avi landed a job in Houston with Gallup, a market at the 1999 Pan American Maccabi Games in Mexico City, Mexico. research firm. Avi was a member of Team USA’s gold medal winning Juniors In 2007, a few months after moving to Houston, they got engaged. Boys’ team, and Heather was on the Open Gymnastics Avi and Heather went for a hike to Mount Bonnell in Austin, TX. team that captured the team gold medal. She also won a bronze in Unbeknownst to Heather, Avi was about to get down on one knee Floor Exercises and silver medals in Balance Beam, Uneven Bars and ask for her hand in marriage. “We get to the peak of the and Vault, and overall silver medal for the individual portion of the mountain, and Avi asked a stranger if he would take a picture of competition. us,” said Heather. “As he’s about to take the first picture, Avi says, The Juniors Baseball and Open Women’s Gymnastics teams shared ‘actually, can you take a few pictures?’ I knew something was up a bus during the Games, touring Mexico City, going to the Opening at that point.” They now have a series of pictures of them posing Ceremony together and watching one another’s games and meets. for a simple picture together, one of Avi on his knee, and a few Despite that, Heather and Avi barely connected while in Mexico of Heather’s reaction. They were married in 2008. “Little did the City. Fast forward a few years and fate would have it that they were photographer know that he was about to be a major part of our both students at George Washington University (GW) where they history,” laughs Avi. competed in their respective sports. “It’s an obvious thing to say, but Maccabi USA and the Pan American While on campus during freshman orientation, Heather noticed Avi Maccabi Games changed our lives. How else would I have known who was a sophomore. “I looked across the way and saw this guy what Avi’s t-shirt meant?” said Heather. “We may even have some wearing a shirt from the (Pan Am) Games,” remembers Heather. “It future Maccabi USA alumni at the 2035 Maccabiah Games!” didn’t hurt that I thought he was cute, so I went over to chat.” They Today the Rasowskys live in Houston with their three children, sons stood and talked for a while, reminiscing about their time in Mexico Adley and Cyrus and daughter Shayla Natania. City and laughing at the fact that they had barely even talked. Avi then mustered up the courage to ask Heather on a date to explore the monuments in Washington D.C. After exploring the monuments, they sat under the Lincoln Memorial talking the rest of the day. On the walk home, Avi asked Heather on another date. “There was no way I was going to let Heather leave that day without her agreeing to see me again,” stated Avi. Heather was nervous given that it was her first week as a college student and she didn’t want to tie herself down that early. Her Gymnastics teammates at GW felt otherwise, imploring her to agree to another date given Avi’s sterling reputation as “one of the nice guys,” according to Heather. Heather and Avi dated throughout college, staying together after Avi was signed by ’s Miami Marlins. Heather stayed at GW to finish her degree and then began graduate school at the University of Florida, conveniently located close to where Avi was based with the Marlins organization. As is the case in professional sports, Avi bounced around a few teams and cities. “The day after I was released, Heather was offered a job at Rice University as an academic advisor for student athletes in Houston,” recalls Avi. “She calls me up and goes, ‘Hey, want to move to Houston?’ Of

Fall 2016 | sportscene | 7 Marc’s first involvement with Maccabi USA occurred during the 1981 World Maccabiah Games, when he played on Team USA’s gold medal-winning volunteer Open Men’s team with NBA player Danny Schayes and former NBA Head Coach David Blatt. Since then, he competed at the 1995 Pan profile American Maccabi Games, as well as the 1993 and 1997 World Mac- cabiah Games. He acted as the Juniors Boys’ Soccer Chair for the 2009 Maccabiah, the Open Men’s Basketball Chair for the 2013 Maccabiah, and is the Overall Basketball Chair for the upcoming 2017 World Maccabiah MARC A. Games. Marc serves on Maccabi USA’s Executive Committee, holding the ROSENBERG office of Associate Treasurer for the organization. “When I think about Maccabi USA, I think about when I first went in 1981 and the slogan was, ‘Two weeks to experience, a lifetime to remember,’” Marc said. “Those simple words have been a large part of my life forever. I would encourage anyone to do whatever they can to try to experience the beauty of the Maccabiah.” Hometown: Hillside, NJ Schools: In his spare time, Marc coaches youth basketball and soccer and is a member of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties. Western New England University He views giving back to those who are less fortunate as a means to act Occupation: Vice Chairman at as a positive role model for his four grown children. Cushman & Wakefield “It’s really important for people to give back their time and effort to those Sport: Basketball who are unable to do so, and my involvement with Maccabi USA helps me achieve this,” Marc explained. “Sports are the natural vehicle, but Hobbies: Watching his kids play Basketball more importantly, the Maccabiah and Maccabi USA are all about bringing and Soccer Jewish people from around the world together to build new lifelong friend- ships and alliances.”

Marc and his wife Amy reside in Short Hills, NJ and have four children: daughter Blake and sons Alex, Drew and Will.

Donald Kent was a semi-professional Soccer player when he first became involved with Maccabi USA as a member of the Open Men’s Soccer Team competing at the 1979 Pan American Maccabi Games in Mexico City, Mexico. donor He has since represented the United States at four Pan American Maccabi Games, 2003–2015 and at three World Maccabiah Games, 2005-2013. profile

“I was in my early twenties the first time I played soccer for Maccabi USA. Although I’ve now done it eight times, I’ll never forget my first time walking into the stadium for the Opening Ceremony in Mexico; there is simply nothing DONALD P. like it,” Don recalled. “It’s hard to describe, but being in the company of all these Jews from different countries and continents, who are probably not too KENT far from being related to me, is part of what makes Maccabi USA so unique. The organization changes people’s lives at every age from 16-76.”

A dedicated philanthropist and volunteer, Don donates his time and efforts to many organizations. A member of Maccabi USA’s Executive Committee, Don serves as Secretary of the Organization. He has also served as the President Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY of his synagogue, The Village Temple in Greenwich Village, Manhattan and is Schools: Beloit College in Wisconsin on the Board of Trustees at his alma mater, Beloit College, as well as serving Columbia University on the Professional Advisory Committee for the Museum of Modern Art in . Occupation: Financial Advisor and Principal at Alliance Bernstein When asked why he continues to support Maccabi USA, Don responded, “The Games become a means to build this cadre of strong, committed Jewish lead- Sport: Soccer ers, who are passionate about being Jewish and exude that energy to others. In Chile at the 2015 Pan American Maccabi Games, I organized a BBQ for all Hobbies: Soccer, Gardening, and Cycling of the Masters Soccer players; over 100 people showed up. I stay involved for moments like these, to help create and develop this strong army of proud Jews from all over the world.”

Don and his wife Ellen Goosenberg Kent reside in New York. They have a son, Jacob, who was a member of Maccabi USA’s Open Men’s Soccer team at the 2015 Pan American Maccabi Games in Santiago, Chile.

8 | sportscene | Fall 2016 FALL 2016 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE UPDATE HASBARA AT MACCABIAH 2017

In Hebrew, the word Hasbara means reasons. Yet we fully recognize that we could not do it without the explanation. It is used nowadays to teach financial support of our Light It Forward Campaign, our Fund-A-Need about the importance of the State of Israel program, as well as our important Endowments and Legacy Campaign and the politics behind the issues that arise contributors. For those of you who support Maccabi USA, you have daily. Hasbara is an important component of our sincere thanks. The return on your investment continues to be our program next summer at the Maccabiah. exponentially realized through building a strong “next generation” of With less than nine months to our Team’s leadership for the Jewish Community. departure for the 20th Maccabiah, we have Maccabi USA is the only delegation to financially support Maccabi many dedicated volunteers and staff hard World Union in putting together the Maccabiah and the myriad of at work in preparation for putting Team USA programs that enhance Jewish continuity around the Maccabi world. together with all the details to make our team successful. A key part We are both privileged and proud to be able to provide over $500,000 of our operation is our ISRAEL CONNECT program. Working together in the four-year cycle to help the worldwide Movement. with vital organizations like Jerusalem U and Stand With Us, we are putting together a comprehensive program of Hasbara so that our As we embark on a New Year, I am pleased to share with you that we Team members return as educated ambassadors for Israel. are adding a position to our staff team. Dan Kurtz has been named our Alumni Relations Director and has already begun to engage our We have committees hard at work raising the funds, then through alumni. This effort, the vision of our Executive Committee, speaks to our Yachad Relief Committee we allocate scholarships, upwards of the continued impact that the power of Maccabi has on the hearts $750,000. In addition, we have a committee that will be allocating and minds of our athletes. We hope that you will want to get involved an additional $250,000 to encourage Elite athletes to participate as we together build the future of the Organization. in the Maccabiah. Between them they are to responsibly distribute $1,000,000 in subsidies so that no qualified athlete is turned away Toda Rabah, from the life-changing experience of the Maccabiah for financial JED MARGOLIS, Executive Director

Fall 2016 | sportscene | 9 news DOUG BAKER — 2013 Maccabiah; 2015 Pan Am MICHAEL ERUSH — 2005, 2009 2013 Maccabiah; 2011 Pan Am; 2010 Australia; — won three awards in California in January for his Maccabiah; 2010 Australia; and JEREMY SPEAR — 1993, 1997, 2005, 2009 accomplishments in the Financial Services industry, 2015 Pan Am — married ALLY Maccabiah; 2007 Pan Am. specifically in retirement planning, 401k rollovers and SIEGEL on July 16, 2016 in ZACHARY MACMATH — 2009 Maccabiah — won asset protection. Carpinteria, CA. the May Player of the Month Award for the Colorado JENNIFER BERNSTEIN — 2006 Australia, 2007 Pan LELAND FAUST — 1965, 1973, 2005 Rapids of Major League Soccer. Am — married DAREN HEATON on July 23rd in Mesa, Maccabiah — has written a book, ALEXANDER MASSA — 2015 European — won AZ. A Capitalist’s Lament: How Wall Street is the New Jersey State Boys’ Fencing Championship in Fleecing You and Ruining America, avail- STEVEN BIRNBAUM — 2011 Pan Saber, February 26, 2016. Am — was named to the United able at Amazon. JOE NEMZER — 2015 European — States Men’s National Team BEN FELD — 2015 European — was named Head Coach of Women’s soccer roster for the Copa America hired as the Head Coach of Drexel Uni- program at Mount St. Mary’s University. Centenario Soccer tournament in versity’s Golf team on May 24, 2016. Summer 2016, appearing in one JEFFREY POPPELL — 1993, 2009 MICKEY FERRI — 2005 Maccabiah — ran a suc- game versus Argentina. Maccabiah — named Associate Head cessful Kickstarter campaign in March 2016 for his Coach for the University of Florida’s Swim- JOSH BLANK — 2015 Pan Am — committed to Elon Enflux Smart Clothing company, which will allow him ming and Diving team on June 1, 2016. University in North Carolina to play Soccer. to begin shipping product in March 2017. DAVID BLATT — 1981 Maccabiah — JEFF FLEISHMAN — MUSA Board; ALEX ROSENBERG — 2009, 2013 signed a deal to be the Head Coach for 2005-2013 Maccabiah — received Maccabiah — signed two-year deal to Euroleague club Darussafaka Dogus the Ike Grainger award from the United play professional basketball for Maccabi Istanbul in Turkey for the 2016–2017 States Golf Association for 25 years of Kiryat Gat of the Israeli Premier League. season. volunteer service to the organization. MICHAEL RUDZINSKY — 2013 Maccabiah; 2015 Pan — 2003-2015 Pan Am — Am — won the USA Rugby Men’s D1 Club National JAKE BRODARZON — 2013 MARTIN FREEMAN Championship with the Mystic River Rugby Club on Maccabiah–and JOSH HURWITZ opened two funds to support and grow Jewish life in June 4. — 2013 Maccabiah — competed Auburn, AL — the Martin Moss Freeman Auburn Uni- against one another at the Big versity Hillel Fund and the Auburn University Jewish JEFF SCHULMAN — MUSA Vice 10 Gymnastics meet on March 5, Scholarship Fund. President; 1997, 2001, 2009 Maccabiah; 2016, representing the University of Iowa and Ohio JAKE FUHRMAN — 2015 European — named to 2003-2015 Pan Am — was named State University, respectively. the 2016 All-Broward County 5A-4A Boys’ Soccer first the Athletic Director at the University of team. Vermont on April 6, 2016. JEFF BUKANTZ — 1981-1993 MARTY GILBERT — 1985, 2005, 2009 Maccabiah ELLEN — 1995 Pan Am — and Maccabiah, 2015 European, — trained two athletes who were selected to play SAMUEL SPORN — MUSA 2015 Pan Am, Maccabi USA First Regional Vice President; MUSA Endow; Vice President — Tennis for Israel at the Rio Paralympics in September returned to NBC 1981-1993, 2005-2013 Maccabiah; Sports Group as a fencing analyst 2016. 1983, 1995, 2003, 2007 Pan Am — ZACK KAMINSKY — 2014 European Basketball for the 2016 Rio Olympics. established the Samuel P. and Ellen Sporn Scholarship — and MICHAEL SIMON — 2015 European — for First-Generation Lawyers at the Brooklyn Law School. JILLIAN CARROLL — 2005 Maccabiah; 2006 helped Pace Academy win their first-ever Class AA Australia; 2007, 2015 Pan Am; 2015 European — ac- Georgia State Championship in Boys’ Basketball on MATTHEW SUSSON — MUSA Board; cepted a position as the Travel Registered Nurse at Provi- March 4, 2016. 2007 Pan Am; 2009 Maccabiah — dence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. married MONICA FRANCIS on Janu- LEO KAPLAN — 2013 Maccabiah — drafted by the ary 3, 2016, at a ceremony in Kauai, GILAD DORON — 2003 Pan Am — Chicago White Sox in the 37th round of the 2016 Hawaii. named Head Women’s Volleyball Coach Major League Baseball Draft. at on April 15, 2016. ZACHARY TEST — 2009, 2013 Maccabiah — com- DEAN KREMER — 2013 Maccabiah peted in for the United States Olympic team — drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. STEPHANIE DREYER — 2003 Pan Am in the 14th round of the 2016 Major — married JONATHAN GINSBURG on League Baseball Draft. The USA Judo 2016 Senior National Champion- ship in Irving, TX was attended by 11 Maccabi USA July 3, 2016 in Arlington, VA. BOB LITWIN — 1985, 2013 Maccabiah — pub- alumni: DEREK ALEF — 1993 Maccabiah; ADAM lished his book titled, “Live the Best Story of Your Life: BJ DUNNE — 2015 European — named BROZER — 1997, 2013 Maccabiah; AARON COHEN A World Champion’s Guide to Lasting Change.” to the 2016 Under Armour 30 Under 30 — 2009 Maccabiah; BRIAN HERSKOWITZ — 1985 team by the National Association of Bas- The Maccabi USA Masters Fastpitch team won the Maccabiah; STEVEN HERSKOWITZ — 1981, 1985 ketball Coaches. Amateur Softball Association 50-and-over National Maccabiah; DAMON KEEVE — 1985, 1989 Macca- Tournament in Prescott, AZ, July 22-24. The team was biah; TONY KENIS — 2009 Maccabiah; FRED KURTZ MARLEE EHRLICH — 2009, 2013 undefeated and included Maccabi Alumni: MIKE GOLD- — 2015 European; ADAM MOYERMAN — 2001-2013 Maccabiah — led ’s MAN — 2009, 2013 Maccabiah; 2003-2011 Pan Am; Maccabiah, 2007, 2015 Pan Am; LOU MOYERMAN Women’s Swimming & Diving team TONY KAHAN — 1993, 1997, 2009 Maccabiah; PAUL — 1981, 1989-1997, 2005-2013 Maccabiah, 2011 to an Ivy League Championship as a RUBIN — 1985-1993, 2009, 2013 Maccabiah; 2007, Pan Am, 2007 European, 2010 Australia; and SANDY senior captain. 2011 Pan Am; STEVE SCHUCKER — 1993, 1997, NORTH — 1985-1993 Maccabiah. 2005, 2009 Maccabiah; LARRY SILFEN — 2009,

10 | sportscene | Fall 2016 ZACHARY WEINBERG — 2015 PLEASE MEET THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF THE Pan Am — hired as Assistant MACCABI USA STAFF We mourn the passing... Coach for UNLV’s Women’s Volley- ball team on June 7, 2016. JORDAN ZARIN — 2001 Maccabiah — married MIKE LANCZYCKI in an Neil Kabinoff intimate ceremony in Newport, RI on MAY 23, 2016 March 18, 2016. Softball—1985, 1993 Maccabiah KATE ZIMMERMAN — 2015 Pan Am — accepted a Neil won silver and gold medals at the Maccabiah position as an Athletic Trainer at Ocean Township High Games. He was an Optician in Philadelphia and the inventor of the Papillion Mirror Display Case. School, beginning in the 2016 school year. SAMANTHA PULLEY joined Maccabi USA in March Neil is survived by his children Jill (Eric) Paine, ETHAN ZOHN — 1997 Maccabiah; as a Games Assistant following a two-year stint Lindsay and Kelsey; his step-children Lee and 2007 Pan Am — married as the Assistant Women’s Ice Hockey Coach at Max Beckman; his grandchildren Molly and Will LISA HEYWOOD July 16, 2016 in Manhattanville College. While at Manhattanville, she re- Paine; and his finance, Mimi Newman Vermont. ceived her M.S. in Sports Business Management. Sami at- tended Boston University as an undergrad, where she played Louis Goldstein NCAA Division I Ice Hockey and served as a Student Coach OREN ZYNDORF — 2013 Maccabiah — signed JULY 17, 2016 for the team, earning a B.A. in Political Science with a minor to play professional Volleyball in Israel for in American and New England Studies. Judo—1965 Maccabiah Maccabi Hod Hasharon. Maccabi USA Board Member 1994-1996 DAKOTA “KOTY” MARINE joined Maccabi USA in Louis was a prominent lawyer and founding May as a Games Assistant. Prior to Maccabi USA, Koty HALLS OF FAME partner at Goldstein, Fluxgold & Baron and worked part-time as the Communications & Develop- HERB BROWN — 1997-2005 Maccabiah — was in- served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for the U.S. ment Associate at the not-for-profit Challah for Hunger. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights. ducted to the Stony Brook Athletics Hall of Fame on As a recent graduate of , Koty earned He is survived by his wife Joni, his children May 17, 2016. a B.A. in Jewish Studies with a minor in Organizational Dori (Robert) Rothschild, Scott and Matthew Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame Inductees, Leadership and is currently pursuing an online certificate Goldstein, and granddaughter Remi. May 26, 2016: in Strategic Communications. AMY GROSS — 2005 Maccabiah — Squash CORRECTION: Our thoughts and prayers are IRA MEYERS — 1981 Maccabiah — Track & Field In the Spring 2016 Issue of SportScene, the sponsors with the families. of our 11th Annual Westchester Brunch & Bridge/ May their memory be for a blessing. Canasta/Mah Jongg event were not listed. VALERIE 2017 Yakir Award LEVITT and ONDREA SCHICIANO — 2009 Maccabiah, 2015 European — were the sponsors of Three of the recipients that this event. We apologize for the omission. will receive Maccabi World Union’s highest honor, the Yakir Award, next year in Israel are Maccabi USA Welcome to our MACCABABIES! Alumni. Tal Brody–1965, 1969 Maccabiah–put Israeli Tal Brody Basketball ‘on the map’ when Larry Silfen–2009, 2013 Maccabiah; David Kantor–MUSA Endower; he made and played for Maccabi Tel Aviv. He 2010 Australia; 2011 Pan Am– 1993, 2001, 2005 Maccabiah; is currently Israel’s Goodwill Ambassador. Richard Reff– and girlfriend Jenny Rupp welcomed 1995-2003 Pan Am–and his wife 1985-2013 Maccabiah; 2010 Australia; Maccabi USA son Benjamin Alexander Silfen on Leslie welcomed granddaughter Board–is Maccabi World Union’s International Chairman November 2, 2015. Nora Sky Shapiro, their fifth grand- of Safety, Security and Medical. Jordan Weinstein–1985 child, on April 7, 2016. Sara Klein–2003, 2007 Pan Am; Maccabiah; 2002 Australia; Maccabi USA Board–is 2005 Maccabiah–and husband Jarryd Goldberg–MUSA Board; 2005 a member of Maccabi World Union’s Executive and Joshua welcomed Benyamin Maccabiah; 2006 Australia; 2007 International Sports Committee (Immediate past Co- Yitzhak Klein on December 24th, European; 2007, 2011 Pan Am–and Chair). Kol Hakavod and Mazel Tov to all of the 2017 2015 in New York City. wife Melissa welcomed Ella Paige Yakir Award Recipients. Goldberg on May 15, 2016. Christina Sobo–2005, 2009 Maccabiah; 2007 Pan Am–and husband Matt welcomed Stephanie Mira Sam Moyerman–2005 Maccabiah, on February 2, 2016. 2007, 2015 Pan Am–and wife Elizabeth welcomed son Arthur Scott Berman–2014 European on June 18, 2016. Arthur is the Basketball; 2015 Pan Am–and wife first grandchild of Kinfar and Lou Sarah welcomed daughter Stella Moyerman–1981, 1989-1997, on June 4, 2016. 2005-2013 Maccabiah; 2007 European; 2010 Australia; 2011 Pan Am; MUSA Board. Jordan Weinstein and Ricky Reff Fall 2016 | 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 Ron Carner Executive Director Jed Margolis Marketing Director Sara Feinstein Design The Kiva Group JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST 1511 Walnut St., Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19102 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.

MACCABI USA/SPORTS FOR ISRAEL ENDOWMENTS as of July 25, 2016

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

20TH MACCABIAH FUND-A-NEED(Gifts over $5,000) as of July 25, 2016

Lorraine (A) & Richard (A)(z”l) Abramson** Jess Forrest (A) Sigmund Hiller (z”l) Paula & David Menche Slade Family Foundation Debbie (A) & Anthony Adams**** Mona Geller Kantor/Knue Families**** Pat & Steve Mizel**** Sylvia & Martin Snow Bender Foundation, Inc. (IC) Gregg Goldberg (A) Stuart & Eileen Kaufman Foundation Inc. Nina & Edward Paul Family Charitable Foundation (IC) Janelle & Greg Berger Cheryl & Adam (A) Goldstein Marc Kirshner Emily & David (A) Pottruck Rebecca & J. Andrew Stein Bindler, Bogen, Buchwald, Eisenman, Laura & David Goone Wendy & Jeff (A) Krieger Helen & David (A) Pudlin Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Kent, Novatt & Associates Christina & Larry (A) Green Betty & Charles Lebovitz*** Aileen & Brian (A) Roberts (IC) Jenny & Neil Tramer Talia & Ron Carner Linda & Frank Greenberg (z”l)(IC) John Levene (A) Traci & Roy (A) Salter TSG Reporting Inc. Craig Donoff & Shari Cohen**** Becky & David Heller**** Budd & Nanette Mayer Seed The Dream Foundation (IC) USA Maccabiah Masters Robert Fogel Family Foundation** Chris & Murray Sheldon Men’s Soccer Alumni

(A) Athlete | (IC) ISRAEL CONNECT | **Sponsored two athletes ($6,000 per athlete) | ***Sponsored three athletes | ****Sponsored four athletes or more L’SHANA TOVAH!