With a simple concept, 9th grader Raymond Sofer decided to have a small gathering for a late afternoon basketball tournament. One thing led to another and soon, over fifty 9th graders came together for an enjoyable and competitive tournament.
We all remember the apprehension we felt when entering high school. For some it meant starting in an entirely different school. This afternoon, boys gathered from Magen David Yeshivah, Flatbush Yeshivah, Shaare Torah and Barkai Yeshivah participating and coming together before the onset of a new school year. Before the afternoon, many did not know one another, and it gave them an opportunity to meet boys that they will be entering high school with.
With Abie Dweck organizing the tournament, the boys spent an exciting and gratifying afternoon competing. First place winners in the basketball tournament were: Raymond Sofer, David Yazdi, Jack Sasson, Isaac Antar and Jacob Matalon. Second Place winners were: David Haber, Ezra Khezrie, Joey Balasiano and Sammy Uziel. Nathan Chera was the free throw winner and Sol Wahba won the three point contest. Trophies were awarded to the winners, and everyone received a T-shirt.
Planning an event such as this, we can give kids tremendous confidence they need before entering high school. With the success of the afternoon, plans are in the works to have another tournament next year to raise money for hesed. Many thanks to Sari and Steven Sofer for hosting the event, and to Abie Dweck for organizing the tournament.
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Randi Shomer is a community member, mother of four children, and a freelance writer for IMAGE Magazine.
