Impact Through Unity

Magen David Yeshivah Warriors Assist
Habayit in Making a Difference

Many sports teams often spend hours practicing together to build unity and enhance their skills, but it’s also important for teams to take their sense of unity and make an impact off the court. As Coach Ike Spike Dweck is known to say, “At MDY, we get young men ready for life, not just basketball”! And so, on a Sunday afternoon in December, the Magen David Yeshivah Varsity Basketball team demonstrated what it truly means to be a team by coming together to do an act of hesed (kindness). Partnering with Habayit, the community organization that provides short term apartments for people who come to NY for medical treatment, they set out to help families in need by moving heavy furniture and belongings from one home to another.

Known for having skills and determination on the basketball court, these Magen David Warriors showed that their dedication extends far beyond their athletic performance. Recognizing the challenges some families in the community face during their transitions, the team decided to step in and lend a helping hand. With rented moving trucks and a desire to make an impact, the players spent their Sunday hauling beds, couches, boxes, and other household items, making the moving process easier for a struggling family.

Teamwork on and off the Court

The values that make a great basketball team—communication, trust, and a shared goal—are the same qualities that contributed to the success of this hesed project. “On the court, we always rely on each other. Whether it’s moving the ball or supporting a teammate during a tough game, we know we are stronger together,” said team captain Philip Sherr. “Off the court, it’s no different. Helping others is a way for us to practice those same values—working together as a team to make a difference.”

The experience demonstrated the depth of the team’s bond, with players coordinating their efforts as if they were executing a play. They divided up the work, communicated effectively, and worked with precision to get each item moved quickly and safely. The boys learned firsthand how teamwork can change lives—not just through sports, but through the simple, meaningful acts of kindness that strengthen the fabric of a community.

The Importance of Hesed in the Community

For the players, the experience was also a valuable reminder of why doing good for others is so important. The concept of hesed teaches that kindness should flow freely and selflessly, without expectation of reward. The basketball team took this lesson to heart, understanding that service to others is an essential part of being responsible community members. “Our team has always believed that our purpose is bigger than just playing basketball. We strive to be leaders and role models, both on and off the court,” said captain Joshua Chabbott. “Doing hesed is about helping people in ways that truly matter, and it made me feel good while doing it too.”

Looking to the Future

As the season continues, the team is excited to carry the lessons of hesed into their future games and beyond. They’re committed to putting in the work and making an impact, whether they are on the court competing or off it, contributing to the well-being of others. As the basketball season progresses, this act of charity serves as a reminder of the importance of teamwork, not just in sport, but in the larger game of life. The team has shown that their commitment to working together doesn’t end when the final whistle blows—it’s a mentality that extends to every part of their lives, proving that hesed and hard work go hand in hand, on and off the court.